Nimblewill
Muhlenbergia schreberi
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Nimblewill as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 36 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nimblewill is a low-growing native grass that forms dense, spreading mats with fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate, wispy seed heads in summer and turns golden-brown in fall before going dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nimblewill is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Cut back in late winter
Wildlife value
This grass provides habitat and nesting material for small wildlife and produces seeds that feed songbirds in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nimblewill need?
- Nimblewill grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Nimblewill bloom?
- Nimblewill blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Nimblewill native?
- Nimblewill (Muhlenbergia schreberi) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 36 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Nimblewill toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Nimblewill as toxic to livestock.
- Is Nimblewill HOA-friendly?
- Nimblewill 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.
Does Nimblewill fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.