Slough Grass
Beckmannia syzigachne
Last reviewed: June 2026
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
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.
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.