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American Panicgrass

Dichanthelium portoricense

Last reviewed: June 2026

American Panicgrass (Dichanthelium portoricense)
Photo: (c) Sam Kieschnick, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Sam Kieschnick

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, CT, DE, FL and 26 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Dichanthelium portoricense is a native prairie grass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured foliage. This warm-season grass produces delicate seed heads from summer through early fall and maintains a tidy, mounded growth habit.

In an HOA neighborhood

American Panicgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The grass provides nectar and pollen for bees and beetles during its long blooming period. Seeds offer food for birds and small wildlife throughout fall and winter.

Common questions

How much sun does American Panicgrass need?
American Panicgrass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does American Panicgrass bloom?
American Panicgrass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is American Panicgrass native?
American Panicgrass (Dichanthelium portoricense) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does American Panicgrass attract?
American Panicgrass draws bees and beetles.
Is American Panicgrass HOA-friendly?
American Panicgrass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow American Panicgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz