California Oatgrass (Danthonia californica)

California oatgrass (Danthonia californica) is a native perennial bunchgrass that's useful in many landscaping applications. It is found in moist meadows and open spaces in Central and Northern California. It grows in dense tufts that can reach 3 ft in height. Flower spikelets appear between May and July. In the garden, California oatgrass can be used as an ornamental grass or it can serve as a lawn replacement that stands up to foot traffic when mowed short. It's also good for erosion control and soil stabilization. Although it can adapt to a range of conditions, California oatgrass does better in cool, moist environments than in hot, dry landscapes. It has a high fire resistance rating and can be planted as a firebreak. This grass is a host plant for multiple skipper butterfly species. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals. From Calscape.

Grasses come in sets of 4 stubs.

Pick-up only, no shipping available. Delivery available for additional charge.

Grower: The Watershed Nursery

Other Names Used: 

Family: Poaceae

Life Cycle: Perennial 

Plant Type: Grass

Sun Exposure: Full, Partial

Bloom Period: Winter, Spring (February to March)

Bloom Color(s): Brown

Plant Height: 2-3 feet tall

Plant Width: 6 inches wide

California Regions:

• San Francisco Bay Area
• North Coast
  
• Sierra Foothills
• Sierra Nevada
• Central California Coast

Ecological Benefits:

• Deer Resistant
  
• Attracts pollinators, birds, wildlife
  

Ecological Functions:

• Grows in Containers
• Lawn Alternative
• Groundcover

Habitat Type:

• Riparian
• Wetland

Human Uses/Cautions: 

Skill Level: Beginner

Seed Pretreatment: None