Old-witch Grass
Panicum capillare
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Pollinators
beetles, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Old-witch grass is a native annual grass that forms loose, open clumps with delicate, airy seed heads. It thrives in poor soils and drought conditions, making it useful for challenging sites. The plant has a somewhat informal appearance and dies back completely each winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Old-witch Grass 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.
- Common name includes 'witch' which may cause concern
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Annual nature means gaps in winter landscape
Wildlife value
This grass provides seeds for birds and nesting material. It attracts beetles and wasps during its summer blooming period.
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 Old-witch Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.