Canby'S Bluegrass
Poa secunda
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Poa secunda is a native bunchgrass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured blue-green foliage. It produces delicate seed heads in late spring and early summer, then goes dormant during hot, dry periods. This drought-tolerant grass is well-adapted to harsh climates and poor soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Canby'S Bluegrass 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.
- Goes dormant and turns brown in summer heat
- Can appear sparse or patchy
- May look unkempt compared to traditional lawn grasses
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the blooming period from May through July. As a native grass, it also provides habitat and food sources for various wildlife species.
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 Canby'S Bluegrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.