Field Sandbur
Cenchrus incertus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 14 more states
Pollinators
beetles, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Field sandbur is a low-growing annual grass that spreads moderately and thrives in full sun with minimal water. This native grass produces small burr-like seed heads during summer and fall months that can be sharp and stick to clothing or pets.
In an HOA neighborhood
Field Sandbur 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.
- Produces painful spiny burs that stick to clothing and skin
- Considered a noxious weed in most contexts
- Creates safety hazards for children and pets
Wildlife value
Supports beetles and wasps as pollinators during its summer blooming period. The seeds may provide food for some ground-feeding birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Field Sandbur need?
- Field Sandbur grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Field Sandbur bloom?
- Field Sandbur blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Field Sandbur native?
- Field Sandbur (Cenchrus incertus) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Field Sandbur attract?
- Field Sandbur draws beetles and wasps.
- Is Field Sandbur HOA-friendly?
- Field Sandbur 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 Field Sandbur? 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