Native grasses are the backbone of healthy ecosystems. They develop deep root systems that improve soil health, prevent erosion, and sequester carbon. They provide cover and nesting habitat for ground-nesting bees and wildlife, and their seeds feed birds through fall and winter.
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
One of the most widely recommended native grasses for residential landscapes. Blue-green summer blades turn stunning copper-red to bronze in fall. Fluffy silver seed heads persist through winter. Extremely drought-tolerant. Found in all three NC regions.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Extremely versatile. Green foliage turns golden-yellow in fall; airy flower panicles and reddish-purple seeds persist into winter. Seeds are heavily foraged by birds. Deep root system sequesters carbon. Can be used in meadow gardens, borders, rain gardens, or naturalized areas.
Broomsedge Bluestem (Andropogon virginicus)
Stop Spraying Broomsedge
This is one of the most commonly sprayed native grasses in NC. It appears in “weedy” patches and is widely seen as a sign of neglect. In reality, broomsedge is nature’s band-aid — it shows up where soil is compacted or depleted and begins the restoration process. It is healing your soil.
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)
The dominant grass of the tallgrass prairie. Root systems can reach 12 feet deep. Distinctive three-parted seed head resembles a turkey foot. Blue-green summer foliage turns russet to burgundy in fall. Excellent for larger landscapes and meadow plantings.
Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans)
Golden-bronze plume-like seed heads in fall are among the showiest of any native grass. Beautiful enough for ornamental garden use as a backdrop planting.
Pink Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
Stunning feathery pink plumes in late fall make this one of the most dramatic native grasses for residential landscapes. Deer resistant, pest resistant, low maintenance. Proof that native grasses can be absolute show-stoppers.
More NC Native Grasses
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Height | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Splitbeard Bluestem | Andropogon ternarius | 2–4 ft | Dry, sandy sites; showy silver seed heads |
| Eastern Gamagrass | Tripsacum dactyloides | 4–8 ft | Wet areas; unique appearance |
| Purple Lovegrass | Eragrostis spectabilis | 1–2 ft | Dry sandy sites; reddish-purple flower cloud |
| Northern Sea Oats | Chasmanthium latifolium | 2–4 ft | Shade tolerant; drooping oat-like seeds |
| Bottlebrush Grass | Elymus hystrix | 2–4 ft | Shade tolerant; woodland gardens |
| Cherokee Sedge | Carex cherokeensis | 8–12 in | Lawn alternative; sun to deep shade |
| Pennsylvania Sedge | Carex pensylvanica | 5–7 in | No-mow lawn substitute; shade tolerant |
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