Tall Mannagrass
Glyceria elata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, GA and 8 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Glyceria elata is a tall native wetland grass that forms upright clumps with graceful seed heads in summer. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in wet soils and partial sun conditions. It provides natural movement and texture to water features or consistently moist garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tall Mannagrass 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.
- Very tall height appears weedy in formal settings
- Requires consistently wet soil which creates maintenance challenges
- Informal wetland appearance conflicts with typical landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for waterfowl and songbirds, while the dense clumps offer nesting habitat for marsh birds. The grass structure supports beneficial insects and creates cover for small wildlife.
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 Tall Mannagrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.