Crested Hairgrass
Koeleria pyramidata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, IA, ID and 12 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Crested hairgrass is a bunch grass that forms compact, neat clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate, pyramidal seed heads from May through July that add graceful movement to the landscape. This drought-tolerant perennial maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Crested Hairgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The seed heads provide food for small birds and the grass offers nesting material. As a native grass, it supports local ecosystems and provides habitat for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Crested Hairgrass need?
- Crested Hairgrass grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Crested Hairgrass bloom?
- Crested Hairgrass blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Crested Hairgrass native?
- Crested Hairgrass (Koeleria pyramidata) is native to CA, CO, IA, ID and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Crested Hairgrass HOA-friendly?
- Crested Hairgrass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Crested Hairgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz