Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Ornamental Grass
Bloom
July — September
Color
Purple — Brown
Height
12—18 inches
Spread
6—12 inches
Sun
Full sun (6+ hours)
Water
Very low — drought tolerant
A Colorado native short grass adapted to high plains and semi-arid regions. The plant's fine, blue-green foliage turns reddish-bronze in fall and creates delicate texture in mixed plantings. The distinctive one-sided seed heads (resembling small flags) are architectural and ornamental, persisting into winter. Requires minimal water once established.
Growing conditions
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy/loamy
- Sun: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Water: Very low — drought tolerant
- Drought tolerance: Excellent
- Hardiness: Colorado native / adapted · USDA Zones 4–7
Wildlife & ecology
- Pollinator value: Moderate — insects and native seed feeders
- Landscape use: Xeriscape borders, texture, understory, wildlife habitat.
Want Blue Grama in your yard?
Xeris designs and installs native plant xeriscapes across Denver and the Front Range. We'll walk your site, assess soil and sun, and build a plan that thrives.
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