Poverty Oat Grass
Danthonia spicata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Danthonia spicata (Poverty Oat Grass) is a native perennial grass found across most US states that blooms May through July. This drought-tolerant species thrives in full sun and dry conditions.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 41 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Poverty oatgrass is a fine-textured native bunch grass that forms compact clumps rather than spreading aggressively. It produces delicate seed heads in late spring through summer and turns golden brown in fall before going dormant in winter.
Growing Poverty Oat Grass
Grow Poverty Oat Grass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Poverty Oat 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.
- Looks wild and unmanicured compared to traditional turf
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving brown stubble
- Name includes 'poverty' which may concern neighbors
Wildlife value
This grass provides seeds for ground-feeding birds like sparrows and juncos. The fine foliage offers nesting material and shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Danthonia spicata naturally grow?
- Poverty Oat Grass is native to most US states, from Maine to Florida and west to Washington, Arizona, and New Mexico. It grows naturally in dry, open areas like prairies, fields, and rocky slopes.
- When does Poverty Oat Grass bloom?
- Danthonia spicata blooms from May through July, producing small seed heads typical of native grasses.
- What growing conditions does this grass prefer?
- Poverty Oat Grass grows best in full sun with low water requirements. It is well-adapted to poor, dry soils and drought conditions, making it suitable for low-maintenance native plantings.
- How tall does Danthonia spicata grow?
- This perennial bunchgrass typically grows 8-24 inches tall, forming small clumps rather than spreading extensively.
- Is Poverty Oat Grass HOA-friendly?
- Poverty Oat Grass takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Poverty 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