Bottlebrush Squirreltail
Elymus elymoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Elymus elymoides is a drought-tolerant native grass found across western and central United States. This bottlebrush squirreltail blooms from May through July in full sun conditions.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bottlebrush Squirreltail as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bottlebrush squirreltail is a small bunch grass with distinctive bristly seed heads that resemble bottle brushes. This drought-tolerant native forms compact clumps and produces its characteristic fuzzy flower spikes in late spring through summer.
Growing Bottlebrush Squirreltail
Grow Bottlebrush Squirreltail in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bottlebrush Squirreltail 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.
- Wild, unmanicured appearance
- Seed heads can look messy or weedy
- May be perceived as unmaintained lawn
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals. The grass structure offers nesting material and shelter for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- Where does Elymus elymoides naturally grow?
- Elymus elymoides is native to 18 states across the western and central United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- When does bottlebrush squirreltail bloom?
- Elymus elymoides typically blooms from May through July, producing its characteristic bottlebrush-like seed heads during the late spring and early summer months.
- What growing conditions does Elymus elymoides prefer?
- This native grass thrives in full sun locations with low water requirements, making it well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments throughout its native range.
- Is Bottlebrush Squirreltail toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bottlebrush Squirreltail as toxic to livestock.
- Is Bottlebrush Squirreltail HOA-friendly?
- Bottlebrush Squirreltail 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 Bottlebrush Squirreltail? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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