Smooth Cordgrass
Sporobolus alterniflorus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
36"–72" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth cordgrass is a tall, sturdy native grass that forms dense clumps with narrow green leaves. It thrives in wet soils and marshy areas, producing delicate seed heads during summer and fall. This grass is particularly well-suited for rain gardens, pond edges, and consistently moist locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Cordgrass takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall height may violate grass height restrictions
- Requires consistently wet conditions not typical in maintained landscapes
- Can spread aggressively in suitable wet conditions
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and flies for pollination. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other birds, while the dense growth offers nesting habitat.
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 Smooth Cordgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.