Bahiagrass
Paspalum notatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, FL, IL and 9 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bahiagrass is a warm-season perennial grass that forms dense, low-growing mats through underground rhizomes. It produces distinctive Y-shaped seed heads throughout the growing season and maintains green color in mild winters. This drought-tolerant grass is commonly used for pastures and low-maintenance lawns in the southeastern United States.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bahiagrass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Tall seed stalks can appear weedy
- May look patchy or dormant in winter
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide food for birds and small mammals. As a grass species, it offers limited nectar resources but can serve as host material for some native 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 Bahiagrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.