Salt Grass
Distichlis spicata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AZ, CA, CO and 37 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Salt grass is a tough, low-growing perennial that forms dense mats of narrow blue-green foliage. This hardy native thrives in challenging conditions including poor soils and requires minimal water once established. It produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes during summer months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Salt 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.
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
- Mat-forming growth habit may look informal for front yard standards
- Often associated with wild or disturbed areas rather than ornamental gardens
Wildlife value
Salt grass provides habitat and nesting material for ground-dwelling birds and small wildlife. While not a major pollinator plant, it offers seed for birds and serves as host habitat for some native insects.
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 Salt Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.