June Grass
Koeleria macrantha
Last reviewed: July 2026
Koeleria macrantha (June Grass) is a native perennial grass blooming May through July across most US states. This drought-tolerant species thrives in full sun and attracts bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag June Grass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
June grass is a delicate native bunchgrass that forms small, neat clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces airy flower heads in late spring and early summer, creating a soft, naturalistic appearance in sunny, well-drained areas.
Growing June Grass
Grow June Grass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
June Grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter like other cool-season grasses
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during its blooming period from May through July. As a native grass, it also provides habitat and nesting material for small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does June Grass bloom?
- Koeleria macrantha typically blooms from May through July, producing its characteristic grass flower heads during late spring and early summer.
- What pollinators visit June Grass?
- June Grass attracts bees and beetles, which visit the flowers for pollen during the blooming period from May to July.
- Where is Koeleria macrantha native?
- June Grass is native to most US states, from coast to coast, including western states like California and Washington, plains states like Kansas and Nebraska, and eastern states from Maine to Alabama.
- What growing conditions does June Grass prefer?
- Koeleria macrantha thrives in full sun locations with low water requirements, making it well-suited for dry prairies, meadows, and xeriscaping applications.
- Is June Grass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag June Grass as toxic to livestock.
- Is June Grass HOA-friendly?
- June 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 June 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