Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa)

Tufted Hair-grass or Tussock grass (Deschampsia cespitosa or Deschampsia caespitosa) is a wild plant from the grass family (Poaceae). Distribution of this grass species is widespread including the eastern and western extremes of North America, parts of South America and Eurasia. In California it is most commonly found in the central and northern portions of the state, including the Coast Ranges and Sierras. It is found in coastal prairie habitat and mountain meadows, along with other native grasses such as Fescues (Festuca spp.) and Needlegrass (Stipa spp.). It is most often found in moist to very wet areas such as freshwater or saltwater marsh, riparian areas, and woodland/forest habitats. From Calscape.

Growers: Nature's Seed

Other Names Used: California Tuftgrass, Tussock Grass

Family: Poaaceae

Life Cycle: Perennial

Plant Type: Grass

Sun Exposure: Full, Partial

Bloom Period: Summer

Bloom Color(s): Brown

Plant Height: 3 feet tall

Plant Width: 3 feet wide

California Regions:

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

Ecological Benefits:

• Drought Tolerant
• Attracts pollinators, birds, wildlife

Ecological Functions:

• Groundcover
• Lawn Alternative

Habitat Type:

• Meadows
• Marshes
• Wet Places
• Coastal Grassland

Human Uses/Cautions:

Skill Level: Beginner

Seed Pretreatment: None