Field Sandbur
Cenchrus spinifex
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 19 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Field sandbur is a low-growing annual grass that produces sharp, spiny seed heads from summer through fall. This aggressive species spreads quickly and creates painful burrs that stick to clothing, shoes, and pet fur.
In an HOA neighborhood
Field Sandbur takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Produces painful spiny burrs
- Considered a weed by most homeowners
- Can spread aggressively and invade lawn areas
Wildlife value
Provides some seed for ground-feeding birds, though the spiny burrs make it less desirable than other native grasses.
Common questions
- How much sun does Field Sandbur need?
- Field Sandbur grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Field Sandbur bloom?
- Field Sandbur blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Field Sandbur native?
- Field Sandbur (Cenchrus spinifex) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Field Sandbur HOA-friendly?
- Field Sandbur 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 Field Sandbur? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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