Chinese Packing Grass
Microstegium vimineum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 20 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Chinese packing grass is an invasive annual grass that forms dense patches in shaded areas. This non-native species aggressively spreads and crowds out beneficial native plants. It should never be planted and should be removed wherever found.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chinese Packing Grass 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.
- Invasive species banned in many areas
- Spreads aggressively and looks weedy
- Will be viewed negatively by neighbors
Wildlife value
This invasive grass provides little to no wildlife value and actually harms native ecosystems by displacing plants that support local wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Chinese Packing Grass need?
- Chinese Packing Grass grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Chinese Packing Grass bloom?
- Chinese Packing Grass blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Chinese Packing Grass native?
- Chinese Packing Grass (Microstegium vimineum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Chinese Packing Grass HOA-friendly?
- Chinese Packing Grass 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 Chinese Packing Grass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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