Bigelow’s Desertgrass: A Hardy Native for Water-Wise Gardens
If you’re looking to create a drought-tolerant landscape that celebrates the natural beauty of the American Southwest, Bigelow’s desertgrass (Blepharidachne bigelovii) might just be the perfect addition to your garden. This unassuming little perennial grass packs a big punch when it comes to water-wise gardening and authentic desert aesthetics.
Meet This Desert Native
Bigelow’s desertgrass is a true child of the American Southwest, calling the Chihuahuan Desert region home. You’ll find this hardy perennial growing naturally across New Mexico and Texas, where it has adapted beautifully to some pretty challenging conditions. As a native plant to the lower 48 states, it’s perfectly suited to thrive in landscapes that mirror its natural habitat.
What Makes It Special?
Don’t let its modest appearance fool you – this little grass has some serious charm. Bigelow’s desertgrass features fine-textured, narrow leaves that create an elegant, wispy appearance in the landscape. During its growing season, it produces delicate seed heads that add subtle movement and texture to garden beds. It’s the kind of plant that whispers rather than shouts, but its quiet beauty can be just as impactful as showier specimens.
Perfect for the Right Garden
This isn’t a grass for every garden, and that’s perfectly okay! Bigelow’s desertgrass shines brightest in:
- Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Native plant gardens focused on Southwestern species
- Desert-themed garden designs
- Low-maintenance naturalized areas
- Rock gardens with good drainage
It serves beautifully as an accent grass, adding authentic desert character without overwhelming other plantings. Think of it as the supporting actor that makes the whole garden production better.
Growing Conditions That Make It Happy
The secret to success with Bigelow’s desertgrass is remembering where it comes from. This plant thrives in conditions that might stress out other grasses:
- Sun: Full sun is essential – this grass loves to bask in bright light
- Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils are ideal; it despises soggy conditions
- Water: Once established, it’s remarkably drought tolerant and prefers minimal watering
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 7-10, perfect for warmer regions
Planting and Care Tips
The good news about Bigelow’s desertgrass is that it’s refreshingly low-maintenance once you get it established. Here’s how to set it up for success:
Planting: Choose a spot with excellent drainage – if water pools there after rain, pick somewhere else. Plant in spring after the last frost, giving each plant enough space to spread naturally.
Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish roots, then gradually reduce watering. Mature plants rarely need supplemental irrigation in their preferred climate zones.
Maintenance: This is where Bigelow’s desertgrass really shines – it needs very little fussing. Occasional removal of dead material is about all the maintenance it requires.
Is This Grass Right for You?
Bigelow’s desertgrass is perfect for gardeners who want to embrace water-wise landscaping while supporting native plant communities. It’s an excellent choice if you live in the Southwest and want to create landscapes that reflect the natural beauty of your region.
However, if you’re looking for a lush, green lawn substitute or live in a humid, high-rainfall area, this probably isn’t your grass. It’s very much a specialist plant that performs best when its specific needs are met.
For those gardening in the right conditions, Bigelow’s desertgrass offers the satisfaction of growing a true native that’s perfectly adapted to challenging desert conditions. It’s a small but meaningful way to celebrate and support the unique ecosystems of the American Southwest.
