Sideoats Grama – Bouteloua Curtipendula

Sideoats Grama, scientifically known as Bouteloua Curtipendula, is a striking native grass species that can transform your landscape into a haven of natural beauty. This perennial bunchgrass, prized for its ecological benefits and ornamental appeal, is a must-have for those looking to enhance their outdoor spaces with a touch of the wild.

 

Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture soils in full sun. Tolerates wide range of soil conditions from well-drained sandy soils to heavy clays. May be grown from seed and may self-seed in the garden in optimum growing conditions. Cut clumps to the ground in late winter.

 

Typical Uses:

• Landscaping: Elevate the aesthetics of your garden or outdoor space with its graceful, slender leaves and unique seed heads that resemble “sideoats,” providing visual interest and a naturalistic charm.
• Erosion Control: Sideoats Grama has a robust root system that makes it an excellent choice for erosion control, stabilizing soil, and preventing the loss of precious topsoil.
• Wildlife Habitat: This grass serves as a valuable food source and habitat for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals, making it an eco-friendly addition to your property.
• Prairie Restoration: Ideal for prairie restoration projects, Sideoats Grama contributes to the revival of native ecosystems and the conservation of biodiversity.

Establishment and Care Instructions:

• Planting: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Sow seeds in the spring or fall, ensuring they are in contact with the soil. For optimal results, consider a mix of grasses and wildflowers for a diverse and resilient landscape.
• Watering: Once established, Sideoats Grama is drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, only during extended dry periods, to encourage deep root growth.
• Pruning: In late winter or early spring, cut back the grass to a height of 6-8 inches to promote healthy regrowth and remove old foliage.
• Fertilization: Typically, Sideoats Grama doesn’t require additional fertilization. It thrives in nutrient-poor soils.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: This native grass species is naturally resistant to common pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.

Special Features and Usage:

• Aesthetic Appeal: The distinctive seed heads, which hang along one side of the stem, create a captivating visual display, especially when backlit by the sun. They transition from green to reddish-brown, adding a touch of drama to your landscape.
• Wildlife Friendly: Sideoats Grama attracts birds, including sparrows and finches, which feed on its seeds. It also provides nesting material for various species.
• Eco-Friendly Landscaping: As a native grass, Sideoats Grama contributes to the preservation of local ecosystems and reduces the need for water and chemical inputs.
• Naturalistic Landscaping: Whether you’re designing a wildflower meadow, a xeriscape garden, or a naturalistic prairie, Sideoats Grama blends beautifully with other native plants and grasses, creating a harmonious and sustainable landscape.