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Pinewoods Finger Grass

Eustachys petraea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Pinewoods Finger Grass (Eustachys petraea)
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, GA, LA and 5 more states

Pinewoods finger grass is a low-growing native bunch grass that forms neat clumps in sunny, dry locations. It produces delicate finger-like seed heads from summer through fall and requires minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pinewoods Finger Grass 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 seeds for birds and serves as host plant for several butterfly species. The clumping structure offers nesting material and shelter for 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 Pinewoods Finger Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.