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Small-fruited Witchgrass

Dichanthelium microcarpon

Last reviewed: June 2026

Small-fruited Witchgrass (Dichanthelium microcarpon)
Photo: (c) Ashwin Srinivasan, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ashwin Srinivasan

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Small Panicgrass is a compact native grass that forms neat clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate seed heads from summer through fall and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Small-fruited Witchgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • May go dormant in winter depending on variety

Wildlife value

This grass provides seeds for songbirds and small mammals. The foliage offers shelter for beneficial insects and serves as a host plant for several native moth and butterfly caterpillars.

Common questions

How much sun does Small-fruited Witchgrass need?
Small-fruited Witchgrass grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Small-fruited Witchgrass bloom?
Small-fruited Witchgrass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Small-fruited Witchgrass native?
Small-fruited Witchgrass (Dichanthelium microcarpon) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 21 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Small-fruited Witchgrass HOA-friendly?
Small-fruited Witchgrass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Small-fruited Witchgrass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz