Seed collected from MPF’s Stilwell Prairie. Photo: Scott Lenharth

Sideoats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Leaves are up to 12 inches long and less than 1/4 inch wide, with long, pointed tips. Widely-spaced long, pale hairs along the edges of the leaves, especially near the leaf collar.

Height

Up to 3 feet

Blooms

July to September

Description

Small reddish-orange flowers dangle along one side of slender stems.

Comments

Found throughout tallgrass prairie region. Commonly found on glades, dry prairies, and savannas. Provides excellent wildlife cover and is easy to establish from seed. Does not compete well with taller native grasses.

small green seedling

Seedling

Sall green plant with opp leaves

Juvenile

Sall green plant with opp leaves

Distinguishing Characteristics

Sall green plant with opp leaves

Mature