Big Cordgrass
Spartina cynosuroides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
48"–96" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
PA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Big cordgrass is a tall, robust native grass that forms substantial clumps and thrives in wet conditions. It produces feathery seed heads in late summer and turns golden-brown in fall before going dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Big Cordgrass 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.
- Extremely tall height (up to 8 feet) exceeds typical HOA limits
- Can appear wild and unkempt during growing season
- Large spread creates dominant presence that may seem uncontrolled
Wildlife value
This grass supports bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. The dense growth provides nesting habitat for birds and the seeds feed wildlife through fall and winter.
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 Big Cordgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.