Carolina Crabgrass
Digitaria cognata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fall witchgrass is a native warm-season bunch grass that forms clumps of fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate seed heads from summer through fall and tolerates drought well once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carolina Crabgrass 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.
- Name includes 'witchgrass' which has weedy associations
- May be confused with crabgrass by HOA boards
- Informal grass appearance doesn't match typical landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The grass provides nectar and pollen for bees and beetles during its extended bloom period. Seeds offer food for birds and 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 Carolina Crabgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.