Cutgrass
Leersia oryzoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Leersia oryzoides (Cutgrass) is a native wetland grass found throughout most US states that blooms from July through September. This moisture-loving grass thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions along pond edges, streams, and wet meadows.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Cutgrass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–40" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cutgrass is a wetland grass that forms loose clumps in moist to wet soils. It produces inconspicuous flower spikes in late summer and requires consistently high moisture levels to thrive. The grass has a somewhat informal appearance and can become quite tall during the growing season.
Growing Cutgrass
Grow Cutgrass in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 40 inches tall and spread 6 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cutgrass 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.
- Requires wetland conditions that are impractical for most residential settings
- Informal growth habit looks too wild for maintained landscapes
- Height and spreading nature can appear unkempt
Wildlife value
This grass provides habitat and nesting material for waterfowl and wetland birds. The seeds offer food for various bird species, particularly those associated with wetland environments.
Common questions
- Where does Leersia oryzoides naturally grow?
- Cutgrass is native to most US states from coast to coast, including wetland areas in Alabama through Wyoming. It naturally occurs in marshes, pond margins, stream banks, and other consistently moist to wet soils.
- When does Cutgrass bloom?
- Leersia oryzoides blooms from July through September, producing small grass flowers typical of the rice grass family.
- What growing conditions does Cutgrass prefer?
- This native grass requires high moisture conditions and performs best in full sun, though it can tolerate partial sun. It is well-adapted to wetland environments and consistently moist soils.
- Is Cutgrass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Cutgrass as toxic to livestock.
- Is Cutgrass HOA-friendly?
- Cutgrass 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 Cutgrass? 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