Prairie Junegrass (Koeleria macrantha) is a cool-season, clump-forming native grass that brings delicate silvery-green seedheads to prairies, meadows, and dry landscapes. This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial begins growing early in spring, with its graceful, upright flower spikes reaching 1-3+ feet tall before turning a soft tan by mid-summer. A valuable species for dry prairies, rocky slopes, and open woodlands, prairie junegrass provides seasonal texture, erosion control, and habitat for wildlife.
Key Features:
- Early-Growing Cool-Season Grass: Begins growth very early in spring, offering structure and greenery before warm-season plants emerge.
- Elegant Seedheads: Silvery-green, spike-like flowers appear in spring and fade to tan by mid-summer, adding movement and texture.
- Wildlife Benefits: Provides habitat and food for birds and insects, contributing to healthy ecosystems.
- Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance: Thrives in dry, sandy, or rocky soils with minimal water once established.
- Clump-Forming Growth Habit: Forms attractive, tufted bunches that blend beautifully with wildflowers and other prairie species.
- Erosion Control: Deep roots help stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion in dry landscapes.
- Pollinator-Safe: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife.
Available in sets of three, six, or 12 plants to suit any garden size.
Why Choose Prairie Junegrass?
Prairie junegrass is an excellent native grass for those looking to add early-season greenery, texture, and resilience to their landscapes. Its cool-season growth cycle pairs well with summer-blooming wildflowers, and its ability to thrive in dry, poor soils makes it an essential choice for sustainable gardening, prairie restoration, and erosion control.
Planting Tips:
- Location: Prefers full sun with well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season; drought-tolerant once mature.
- Maintenance: Minimal care required. There's no need to deadhead the flowers, as allowing them to go to seed provides a valuable food source for birds. Leaving the stems standing in the fall offers overwintering sites for beneficial insects. If desired, cut back the stems in late spring after pollinators have emerged.
For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center.
Enhance your garden with the graceful, early-growing prairie junegrass—a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant native grass that brings beauty, ecological benefits, and resilience to your landscape!