How much sun does Slough Grass need?

Slough Grass grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Slough Grass bloom?

Slough Grass blooms in June, July, and August.

Where is Slough Grass native?

Slough Grass (Beckmannia syzigachne) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Slough Grass toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Slough Grass as toxic to livestock.

Is Slough Grass HOA-friendly?

Slough Grass takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Slough Grass

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Beckmannia syzigachne

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Slough Grass as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

high

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, IA and 20 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central Basin and Range

Slough grass is a native wetland grass that forms upright clumps with narrow leaves and delicate seed heads in summer. It requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and thrives in full sun locations. This cool-season grass goes dormant in winter, turning brown before new growth emerges in spring.

In an HOA neighborhood

Slough Grass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Requires wet soil conditions that may cause drainage concerns
Can look weedy and unkempt during dormant season
Associated with wetland areas rather than maintained landscapes

Wildlife value

This grass provides nesting material and cover for waterfowl and marsh birds. The seeds feed various songbirds and waterfowl in late summer and fall.

Common questions

How much sun does Slough Grass need?: Slough Grass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Slough Grass bloom?: Slough Grass blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Slough Grass native?: Slough Grass (Beckmannia syzigachne) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Slough Grass toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Slough Grass as toxic to livestock.
Is Slough Grass HOA-friendly?: Slough Grass 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.

Does Slough Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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