Illinois Native Plant Guide

Side-Oats Grama
Bouteloua curtipendula

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Mesic to dry prairie and savanna species. Species has no inundation tolerance.

Wildlife Value

Provides nutritious grass for grazing and is tolerant to limited grazing. Attracts birds and provides cover for grassland birds.

Application/Zone

Used for upland slope buffers. Dense rhizomatous root system works well on steep slopes to prevent erosion.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• For warm season planting, seed or divisions work well.
• Germinates easily from seed in most cases.

Side-Oats Grama
Bouteloua curtipendula

Mature Height
1-3 feet

Plant Type
Perennial tufted grass

Indicator Status
Upland

pH
Wide range

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Low

Salt Tolerance
Not tolerant

Siltation Tolerance
Low, found naturally on slopes

Flowering Color and Time
Purplish
July to September

Light Preference
Full sun

Seeding Rate
5 lbs/acre

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