Spreading Bent
Agrostis alba
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
WA
Pollinators
bees
Spreading bent is a fine-textured perennial grass that forms dense, low-growing mats through underground runners. It requires consistent moisture and full sun to maintain its lush green appearance. This grass produces delicate flower spikes during summer months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spreading Bent takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit can appear uncontrolled
- High water needs may cause uneven growth patterns
- Natural grass appearance may look unmaintained to HOA standards
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and other small pollinators. As a native grass, it provides habitat and nesting material for ground-dwelling wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spreading Bent need?
- Spreading Bent grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Spreading Bent bloom?
- Spreading Bent blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Spreading Bent native?
- Spreading Bent (Agrostis alba) is native to WA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Spreading Bent attract?
- Spreading Bent draws bees.
- Is Spreading Bent HOA-friendly?
- Spreading Bent 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.
Ready to grow Spreading Bent? 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