Species Hairy Grama
purple-pink flowers with pink hairs, green leaves and brown-green stems

Hairy Grama

Bouteloua hirsuta

Also Known As - Hairy Gramma
Hairy Grama is an attractive native grass species found in the western United States and parts of Canada. Growing up to 3-4 feet tall, it is a cool season grass that produces tight clumps of slender, hairy stems and narrow, blue-green leaves. It is very tolerant of drought conditions and grows in many different soil types. It is a great choice for erosion control, forage production, or as a low-maintenance ornamental in landscaping projects. It produces profuse pinkish-purple flowers in mid-summer and has a high salt tolerance.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Hairy Grama should be watered deeply at the base of the plant once per week. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as water-logged soils can lead to root rot. During warm, dry spells, an additional weekly watering may be necessary to keep the plant looking its best. It is important not to overwater, as overly moist soil can lead to disease.

sunlight

Hairy Grama is an ornamental grass species that prefers full sun to partial shade, with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. This grass will do best in areas with plenty of direct sun. It should be planted in early spring or late in fall in areas with hot summer temperatures. In cooler climates, Hairy Grama can be planted in late summer or early fall. Be sure to water the area thoroughly when planting the grass and make sure to evenly spread out fertilizer during the growing season.

pruning

Hairy Grama (Bouteloua hirsuta) should be pruned once a year, in late winter or early spring. Pruning is beneficial to the health of the plant as it will help to maintain an attractive shape and remove any dead, diseased or damaged foliage. Pruning should be done judiciously, however, as too much or too little cutting could adversely affect the appearance and health of the plant. Generally, only light pruning is necessary, and it should focus primarily on removal of dry or brown foliage. Avoid cutting into living foliage or stems as this could damage the plant and open it up to further damage from pests and disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Bouteloua hirsuta is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.

Starts Flowering

Hairy Grama typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Bouteloua hirsuta is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.