Basketgrass
Oplismenus hirtellus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL, VA
Basketgrass is a low-growing perennial grass that forms spreading clumps in partially shaded areas. It produces delicate flower spikes from summer through early fall and tolerates moderate moisture conditions well.
In an HOA neighborhood
Basketgrass 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.
- Spreads aggressively and can appear weedy
- Low growth habit may look unkempt in formal settings
- Often mistaken for invasive grass species
Wildlife value
This grass provides habitat and potential nesting material for small wildlife, though it has limited documented pollinator value.
Common questions
- How much sun does Basketgrass need?
- Basketgrass grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Basketgrass bloom?
- Basketgrass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Basketgrass native?
- Basketgrass (Oplismenus hirtellus) is native to FL, VA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Basketgrass HOA-friendly?
- Basketgrass takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Basketgrass? 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