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Stinkgrass

Eragrostis cilianensis

Last reviewed: August 2026

Stinkgrass (Eragrostis cilianensis)
Photo: (c) Kevin Faccenda, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Kevin Faccenda

Toxicity unknown

Stinkgrass (Eragrostis cilianensis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native alternatives to Stinkgrass

Stinkgrass is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.

Before you buy

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Stinkgrass is an annual grass that grows in clumps reaching 12-36 inches tall. It produces seed heads from summer through early fall and tolerates partial shade with moderate water needs. This species gets its common name from the unpleasant odor it can produce when disturbed.

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In an HOA neighborhood

Stinkgrass 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.

  • Common name 'Stinkgrass' creates negative perception
  • Can appear weedy and unkempt
  • Annual growth cycle leaves gaps in plantings

Wildlife value

Provides seed for birds and small wildlife during late summer and fall. The grass structure offers some nesting material and minor habitat value for insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Stinkgrass need?
Stinkgrass grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Stinkgrass bloom?
Stinkgrass blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Is Stinkgrass HOA-friendly?
Stinkgrass takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

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