Annual-bristle Grass
Aristida adscensionis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, KS and 10 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Annual bristlegrass is a short-lived native grass that forms small clumps during the growing season. It produces delicate seed heads from late spring through fall and typically dies back with the first frost.
In an HOA neighborhood
Annual-bristle Grass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Dies completely each winter leaving bare spots
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Bristly seed heads may look messy to some
Wildlife value
This grass provides seeds for birds and small mammals. The foliage offers nesting material and shelter for beneficial insects.
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.
Does Annual-bristle Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.