Blue Grama Grass
Bouteloua gracilis
paskwawi-maskosiy(Cree)
The signature grass of Alberta's native prairie, and one of the most widely-distributed grasses in the western Great Plains. Distinctive curved, comb-like seed heads look like tiny eyelashes bending in the wind — an unmistakable ID feature. Exceptionally drought-tolerant. Makes a beautiful low-maintenance lawn alternative, turning bronze-gold in fall.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Southern AB Prairie, Zone 3
Light
Full sun, xeriscape
Bloom Time
June–Oct
Soil
Lean, well-drained sandy or gravelly; tolerates clay and alkaline soils
Water
Very low — thrives in drought
Growing & Cultivation
Best Planting Time
Late spring after soil reaches 15°C
Propagation
Seed germinates readily without stratification; direct-sow in late spring once soil warms. Also by division of established clumps in spring. Establishes slowly but long-lived once rooted.
Spacing
20–30 cm for lawn-like coverage
