Tickle Grass
Agrostis scabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 41 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tickle grass is a delicate native perennial that forms loose clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces airy, open flower heads in summer that create a soft, naturalistic appearance in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tickle Grass 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 informal appearance that looks wild or weedy
- Common name 'tickle grass' suggests unkempt character
- Too naturalistic for typical HOA front yard standards
Wildlife value
This grass provides habitat and food for native bees and beetles during its summer bloom period. The seeds also offer food for small birds and 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 Tickle Grass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.