Jointhead
Arthraxon hispidus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Jointhead is a low-growing annual grass that forms small clumps in partial shade areas. This short-statured grass produces tiny flowers from summer through early fall and completes its life cycle in one growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Jointhead 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.
- Has weedy appearance typical of wild grasses
- Annual lifecycle creates inconsistent coverage
- Small stature may look unkempt in formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer and fall blooming period. As a grass, it may also provide some shelter for small ground-dwelling insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Jointhead need?
- Jointhead grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Jointhead bloom?
- Jointhead blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Jointhead native?
- Jointhead (Arthraxon hispidus) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Jointhead attract?
- Jointhead draws bees and beetles.
- Is Jointhead HOA-friendly?
- Jointhead 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 Jointhead? 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