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Gophertail Lovegrass

Eragrostis ciliaris

Last reviewed: June 2026

Gophertail Lovegrass (Eragrostis ciliaris)
Photo: National Museum of Natural History / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states

Gophertail lovegrass is a native annual grass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured foliage and delicate seed heads. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established. The grass blooms from June through September with airy, attractive flower spikes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Gophertail Lovegrass 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.

  • Annual nature means it dies back completely each year
  • Can appear weedy or unkempt to conventional landscaping standards
  • May self-seed unpredictably creating patchy appearance

Wildlife value

This native grass provides seeds for birds and small wildlife during fall and winter months. The fine foliage offers nesting material and shelter for beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Gophertail Lovegrass need?
Gophertail Lovegrass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Gophertail Lovegrass bloom?
Gophertail Lovegrass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Gophertail Lovegrass native?
Gophertail Lovegrass (Eragrostis ciliaris) is native to AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Gophertail Lovegrass HOA-friendly?
Gophertail Lovegrass 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 Gophertail Lovegrass? 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