Native Habitat:
Moist meadows, streambanks, and open woodlands throughout western North America. Common in riparian areas, forest edges, and wet prairies of the Willamette Valley.
 
Bloom Time:
May – August
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial bunchgrass or loosely rhizomatous grass, typically 2–4 feet tall. Produces narrow, spike-like panicles that emerge green and mature to bronze tones.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates a wide range of soils from moist loams to seasonally dry clays. Prefers sites with moderate moisture but adapts well to variable hydrology.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Carex obnupta, Deschampsia cespitosa, Eriophyllum lanatum, Camassia leichtlinii, and Juncus patens.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Functions as a resilient, flexible grass for bioswales, rain gardens, and meadow-style plantings in urban environments. Provides vertical structure, subtle texture, and seasonal movement in mixed native compositions. Performs well in stormwater infiltration areas and restoration plantings, where it stabilizes soil and supports infiltration. Its shifting seed heads create a soft, dynamic effect that transitions beautifully through the seasons.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Provides seeds for songbirds such as finches and sparrows; host plant for native grass moths and leafhoppers. Dense root systems create shelter for ground beetles and nesting materials for native bees.
 
Historical Use:
Historically grazed by wildlife and livestock; native peoples may have harvested seeds for food. Today valued for habitat restoration, soil stabilization, and sustainable landscape design.