Fowl Manna Grass
Glyceria striata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fowl manna grass is a native wetland grass that forms clumps of narrow green leaves reaching 1-4 feet tall. It produces delicate seed heads from May through July and thrives in consistently moist to wet soils in partial shade. This grass is best suited for rain gardens, pond edges, or other water features where it can receive the high moisture it requires.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fowl Manna Grass 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.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that are difficult to maintain in typical landscapes
- Can appear weedy or unkempt compared to traditional turf grass
- May spread beyond intended boundaries in moist conditions
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for waterfowl and songbirds, while the dense clumps offer nesting habitat for birds. As a native grass, it supports various insects that feed on grasses and sedges.
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.
Does Fowl Manna Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.