Skip to main content

Broomsedge

Andropogon glomeratus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Broomsedge (Andropogon glomeratus)
Photo: (c) Gary Rogers, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Gary Rogers

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

24"–60" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Native to

MA

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, moths

Broomsedge is a native warm-season grass that forms upright clumps with feathery seed heads in late summer and fall. It provides excellent texture and movement in the landscape, turning attractive bronze colors in autumn and winter. This drought-tolerant grass thrives in poor soils where other plants struggle.

In an HOA neighborhood

Broomsedge 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.

  • Can appear weedy and unkempt, especially when dormant
  • May be mistaken for invasive grasses by neighbors
  • Informal appearance doesn't suit traditional landscaping expectations

Wildlife value

The fluffy seed heads attract various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and moths during its long bloom period. Seeds provide food for birds, and the dense clumps offer nesting sites and winter shelter for small wildlife.

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 Broomsedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.