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White-Grained Mountain-Ricegrass

Oryzopsis asperifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

White-Grained Mountain-Ricegrass (Oryzopsis asperifolia)
Photo: Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service (retired), Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CO, CT, IA, ID and 24 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

White-grained mountain ricegrass is a fine-textured native grass that forms tidy clumps with delicate, arching foliage. It produces subtle flower clusters in late spring and early summer, then goes dormant in winter as a deciduous perennial.

In an HOA neighborhood

White-Grained Mountain-Ricegrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.

  • Goes completely dormant in winter
  • May appear sparse compared to traditional landscaping

Wildlife value

This grass supports bees and beetles during its blooming period from May through July. As a native grass, it also provides habitat and food sources for various insects and 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 White-Grained Mountain-Ricegrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.