Redtop
Tridens flavus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Redtop is a native warm-season grass that forms upright clumps with fine-textured foliage and airy seed heads. It produces delicate reddish-purple flower clusters from June through August, adding movement and seasonal interest to the landscape. This drought-tolerant grass works well in naturalized areas and prairie-style plantings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Redtop 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.
- Appears too wild and informal for typical HOA standards
- Can look unkempt when dormant in winter
- May be perceived as weedy rather than intentionally planted
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and other pollinators during the summer months. Seeds provide food for birds, particularly songbirds and game birds.
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 Redtop fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.