Alpine Sweetgrass
Hierochloe alpina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
MT
Hierochloe alpina is a low-growing native bunch grass that forms compact clumps in mountain and alpine environments. This sweet-scented grass produces delicate flower heads in late spring through summer and stays quite small, making it suitable for rock gardens or as groundcover in sunny areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alpine Sweetgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This grass provides seeds for small birds and nesting material, though it has limited pollinator value as a wind-pollinated species.
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 Alpine Sweetgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.