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Seashore Bentgrass

Agrostis pallens

Last reviewed: June 2026

Seashore Bentgrass (Agrostis pallens)
Photo: Robert Steers/NPS / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, ID, MA, MT and 3 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Seashore bentgrass is a fine-textured native grass that forms compact clumps with delicate seed heads in late spring and summer. This coastal native stays green year-round and tolerates drought well once established. It works well as a groundcover or accent grass in sunny, well-drained locations.

In an HOA neighborhood

Seashore Bentgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.

  • Seed heads may appear informal to some HOAs
  • Small clumping growth may look sparse initially

Wildlife value

The flowers provide pollen for native bees and beetles during its May through July bloom period. As a native grass, it also offers habitat and nesting material for beneficial 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 Seashore Bentgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.