Slender Hairgrass
Deschampsia elongata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–40" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Slender hairgrass is a fine-textured native bunch grass that forms neat clumps with delicate, airy seed heads in summer. It stays green year-round and tolerates drought once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for natural landscapes. The wispy flower clusters add movement and texture to plantings from June through August.
In an HOA neighborhood
Slender Hairgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This native grass provides seeds for songbirds and small mammals in late summer and fall. The clumping growth habit offers nesting material and shelter for ground-dwelling wildlife.
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 Slender Hairgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.