Wavy Hairgrass
Avenella flexuosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CO and 35 more states
Wavy hairgrass is a delicate native bunch grass that forms small, tidy clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces airy, graceful seed heads from late spring through summer that sway gently in the breeze. This compact grass works well as an accent plant or groundcover in partially shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wavy Hairgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The seeds provide food for small birds and the grass offers nesting material. As a native grass, it supports various insects that serve as food sources for birds.
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 Wavy Hairgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.