Hairy Grama
Bouteloua hirsuta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Hairy Grama is a drought-tolerant native grass found across 27 US states from Texas to Montana. This low-water perennial blooms June through August, attracting bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Hairy Grama as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, FL and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hairy grama is a compact native bunchgrass that forms neat clumps with distinctive fuzzy seed heads in summer. This drought-tolerant grass stays relatively short and provides excellent texture in xeriscape gardens. It thrives in arid conditions with minimal water once established.
Growing Hairy Grama
Grow Hairy Grama in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hairy Grama is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May look sparse in winter months
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and beetles, while the seed heads provide food for birds and small mammals. As a native grass, it supports local wildlife throughout the growing season.
Common questions
- Where does Hairy Grama naturally grow?
- Hairy Grama is native to 27 US states, ranging from the Great Plains through the Southwest and extending into parts of the Southeast and upper Midwest, including Texas, Colorado, Kansas, and Montana.
- When does Hairy Grama bloom?
- Hairy Grama produces its characteristic seed heads during summer months, typically from June through August.
- What pollinators visit Hairy Grama?
- Hairy Grama attracts bees and beetles, which visit the grass for pollen and other resources during its blooming period.
- How much water does Hairy Grama need?
- Hairy Grama is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in low-water conditions, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and natural areas with minimal irrigation.
- Is Hairy Grama toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Hairy Grama as toxic to livestock.
- Is Hairy Grama HOA-friendly?
- Hairy Grama is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Hairy Grama? 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