California Satintail
Imperata brevifolia
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
California Satintail (Imperata brevifolia) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
A native bunch grass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured foliage and delicate flower plumes. This drought-tolerant perennial adds soft texture to desert landscapes while requiring minimal water once established. The silvery seed heads catch light beautifully and provide seasonal interest through late summer and fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Satintail is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- May look sparse or weedy if not grouped with other plants
- Seed heads could be perceived as untidy by strict HOAs
Wildlife value
Summer blooms attract bees and moths during the hottest months when few other plants are flowering. The grass seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does California Satintail need?
- California Satintail grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does California Satintail bloom?
- California Satintail blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is California Satintail native?
- California Satintail (Imperata brevifolia) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does California Satintail attract?
- California Satintail draws bees and moths.
- Is California Satintail HOA-friendly?
- California Satintail is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California Satintail? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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