Mountain Oat Grass
Danthonia compressa
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Mountain Oat Grass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 19 more states
Mountain oat grass is a compact native bunch grass that forms neat, low clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate seed heads in summer and turns golden brown in fall before going dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain Oat 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 completely dormant in winter
Wildlife value
This grass provides seeds for songbirds and small mammals in late summer and fall. The fine foliage offers shelter for beneficial insects and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mountain Oat Grass need?
- Mountain Oat Grass grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Mountain Oat Grass bloom?
- Mountain Oat Grass blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Mountain Oat Grass native?
- Mountain Oat Grass (Danthonia compressa) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Mountain Oat Grass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Mountain Oat Grass as toxic to livestock.
- Is Mountain Oat Grass HOA-friendly?
- Mountain 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 Mountain 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