Side-oats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula)

Side-oats Grama

Bouteloua curtipendula

Bouteloua curtipendula, known as Side-oats Grama, is a warm-season perennial grass that typically reaches heights of 1 to 3 feet. It is characterized by its distinctive seed spikes that dangle uniformly along one side of the flowering stem. This grass species thrives in prairies, open woodlands, rocky slopes, and along roadsides, preferring well-drained soils ranging from sandy to clayey textures. Side-oats Grama is valued in landscaping for its drought tolerance, ornamental seed heads, and ability to stabilize soil, making it suitable for prairie restorations and xeriscaping projects.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Graminoid
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches)	38
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	15
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.