Sideoats Grama

Warm-season native grass forms compact clumps of narrow, bluish-gray leaves about 1–1.5 feet tall, with flowering stems rising to around 3 feet in summer. Its distinctive oat-like seed spikes hang along one side of the stem, often showing bright orange-red stamens when in bloom, and mature to tan as the season progresses. Drought-tolerant and adaptable—even near black walnut—it provides excellent habitat for skipper butterflies and develops attractive fall color in shades of gold, orange, and red.