Crested Wheatgrass
Agropyron cristatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Crested Wheatgrass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CA, CO, DE, IA and 23 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Crested wheatgrass is a cool-season bunch grass that forms dense, upright clumps with blue-green foliage. It produces distinctive wheat-like seed heads in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant grass maintains its color well through most of the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Crested Wheatgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Seed heads may look too agricultural for some formal settings
Wildlife value
Primarily provides seed for birds and small mammals rather than supporting pollinators. The dense growth offers nesting habitat and cover for ground-dwelling wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Crested Wheatgrass need?
- Crested Wheatgrass grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Crested Wheatgrass bloom?
- Crested Wheatgrass blooms in May and June.
- Where is Crested Wheatgrass native?
- Crested Wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) is native to CA, CO, DE, IA and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Crested Wheatgrass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Crested Wheatgrass as toxic to livestock.
- Is Crested Wheatgrass HOA-friendly?
- Crested Wheatgrass 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 Wheatgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.