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Plains Love Grass

Eragrostis intermedia

Last reviewed: July 2026

Plains Love Grass (Eragrostis intermedia)
Photo: (c) Mark Pollock, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Mark Pollock

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Plains Love Grass as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CA and 15 more states

Plains lovegrass is a fine-textured native bunch grass that forms compact clumps with delicate, airy seed heads. It thrives in sunny, dry locations and provides excellent drought tolerance once established. The grass maintains an attractive upright form throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Plains Love Grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, foundation.

  • May appear too informal for conservative HOAs
  • Seed heads could be perceived as messy by some

Wildlife value

This native grass provides seeds for birds and nesting material for small wildlife. Its fine texture offers habitat for beneficial insects while supporting native ecosystem health.

Common questions

How much sun does Plains Love Grass need?
Plains Love Grass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Plains Love Grass bloom?
Plains Love Grass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Plains Love Grass native?
Plains Love Grass (Eragrostis intermedia) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 15 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Plains Love Grass toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Plains Love Grass as toxic to livestock.
Is Plains Love Grass HOA-friendly?
Plains Love 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 Plains Love 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