Black Grama
Bouteloua eriopoda
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Black Grama as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–30" H × 18"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, KS and 6 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Black grama is a drought-tolerant native grass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces distinctive black seed heads on arching stems from summer through fall, creating an attractive ornamental display.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Grama is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Cut back in late winter
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for quail, doves, and other ground-feeding birds. Small mammals also utilize the dense clumps for shelter and nesting sites.
Common questions
- How much sun does Black Grama need?
- Black Grama grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Black Grama bloom?
- Black Grama blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Black Grama native?
- Black Grama (Bouteloua eriopoda) is native to AZ, CA, CO, KS and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Black Grama toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Black Grama as toxic to livestock.
- Is Black Grama HOA-friendly?
- Black Grama 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.
Does Black Grama fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.