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Curved Sicklegrass

Parapholis incurva

Last reviewed: June 2026

Curved Sicklegrass (Parapholis incurva)
Photo: Stefan.lefnaer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, CA, DE, FL and 10 more states

Curved sicklegrass is a small annual grass with distinctive curved, sickle-shaped seed heads that bloom from spring through mid-summer. This low-growing grass forms small tufts and thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Curved Sicklegrass 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.

  • Very small stature may appear sparse or patchy
  • Annual lifecycle creates seasonal gaps
  • Uncommon grass may be mistaken for weeds

Wildlife value

This grass provides seeds for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife. As an annual grass, it offers habitat structure for beneficial insects during its growing season.

Common questions

How much sun does Curved Sicklegrass need?
Curved Sicklegrass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Curved Sicklegrass bloom?
Curved Sicklegrass blooms in April, May, June, and July.
Where is Curved Sicklegrass native?
Curved Sicklegrass (Parapholis incurva) is native to AL, CA, DE, FL and 10 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Curved Sicklegrass HOA-friendly?
Curved Sicklegrass 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 Curved Sicklegrass? 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