Skip to main content

Intermediate Oat Grass

Danthonia intermedia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Intermediate Oat Grass (Danthonia intermedia)
Photo: Matt Lavin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Intermediate Oat Grass as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AR, AZ, CA, CO and 10 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Intermediate oat grass is a compact perennial bunch grass that forms neat clumps reaching 12-24 inches tall. It produces delicate seed heads from May through July and tolerates partial sun conditions with moderate water needs. This grass maintains a tidy, mounded appearance that works well in structured landscapes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Intermediate Oat Grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • May appear weedy during seed production phase
  • Unknown leaf retention could affect winter appearance

Wildlife value

The seed heads provide food for birds and small wildlife. As a native grass, it supports local ecosystem health and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Intermediate Oat Grass need?
Intermediate Oat Grass grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Intermediate Oat Grass bloom?
Intermediate Oat Grass blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Intermediate Oat Grass native?
Intermediate Oat Grass (Danthonia intermedia) is native to AR, AZ, CA, CO and 10 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Intermediate Oat Grass toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Intermediate Oat Grass as toxic to livestock.
Is Intermediate Oat Grass HOA-friendly?
Intermediate Oat Grass 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 Intermediate Oat Grass? 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