Sawgrass
Cladium jamaicense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Cladium jamaicense (Sawgrass) is a native evergreen grass found in Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and Virginia. It blooms from March through November and thrives in wet to moderately moist soils in full sun.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
96"–120" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AR, LA, TX, VA
Pollinators
moths
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Sawgrass is a tall, robust native sedge that forms dense clumps of sharp-edged leaves. This wetland plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and produces small brownish flower clusters from spring through fall.
Growing Sawgrass
Grow Sawgrass in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 96 to 120 inches tall and spread 24 to 60 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sawgrass 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.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for moths and other nighttime pollinators. Dense clumps offer excellent nesting sites and cover for wetland birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Sawgrass naturally grow?
- Sawgrass is native to Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, and Virginia, typically found in wetlands, marshes, and swampy areas.
- When does Cladium jamaicense bloom?
- Sawgrass has an extended blooming period from March through November, producing small flower clusters throughout most of the growing season.
- What pollinators visit Sawgrass?
- Moths are known pollinators of Cladium jamaicense, visiting the flowers during the plant's long blooming season.
- What growing conditions does Sawgrass prefer?
- This native grass thrives in full sun with medium to high moisture levels, making it well-suited for wetland restoration and rain gardens.
- Is Sawgrass HOA-friendly?
- Sawgrass 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 Sawgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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