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Lemmon's Needlegrass

Achnatherum lemmonii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Lemmon's Needlegrass (Achnatherum lemmonii)
Photo: Daderot, no known copyright restrictions (public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

WA

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Lemmon's needlegrass is a compact native bunch grass that forms neat clumps with fine-textured blue-green foliage. It produces delicate seed heads in late spring and early summer, adding graceful movement to the landscape while requiring minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Lemmon's Needlegrass 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 nectar for bees and beetles during its blooming period from May through July. The seeds also offer food for birds and small wildlife.

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 Lemmon's Needlegrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.