Growing Desertgrass: A Tough Native for Water-Wise Gardens
If you’re looking for a native grass that can handle serious drought and still look good doing it, let me introduce you to desertgrass (Blepharidachne). This unassuming little perennial might not win any flashy flower contests, but it’s got character and resilience that’ll make you appreciate the quiet beauty of native grasses.
What Is Desertgrass?
Desertgrass is a native perennial grass that’s perfectly at home in the arid landscapes of the American Southwest. As its name suggests, this plant has evolved to thrive in some pretty harsh conditions, making it a fantastic choice for gardeners who want to work with nature rather than against it.
This hardy native can be found growing naturally across California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. It’s a true child of the desert, adapted to hot summers, cold winters, and very little water.
Why Consider Desertgrass for Your Garden?
Here’s the thing about desertgrass – it’s not going to be the showstopper in your garden, but it might just become one of your most reliable performers. Here’s why you might want to give it a try:
- Drought champion: Once established, this grass needs very little supplemental watering
- Low maintenance: No fussy care requirements or constant attention needed
- Native benefits: Supports local ecosystems and fits naturally into regional landscapes
- Erosion control: Its root system helps stabilize soil in challenging areas
- Year-round interest: Provides texture and movement even in winter
Where Does Desertgrass Shine?
This isn’t a grass for your traditional green lawn, but it’s perfect for specific garden styles and challenging spots:
- Xeriscapes and drought-tolerant gardens: Right at home with other water-wise plants
- Rock gardens: Adds soft texture among hard landscape elements
- Native plant gardens: Provides the perfect backdrop for showier native wildflowers
- Slopes and erosion-prone areas: Helps hold soil while looking natural
- Naturalized areas: Great for creating low-maintenance meadow-like spaces
Growing Conditions and Care
The beauty of desertgrass lies in its simplicity. This plant actually prefers to be left alone once it’s settled in:
Sunlight: Full sun is best – this grass loves soaking up those rays
Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely essential. Sandy, rocky, or gravelly soils work perfectly. Heavy clay or waterlogged conditions are a no-go.
Water: After establishment (usually the first year), desertgrass thrives on natural rainfall. Overwatering is more likely to harm it than help it.
Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, this grass can handle both hot summers and cold winters like a champ.
Planting and Establishment Tips
Getting desertgrass established is straightforward if you remember it’s built for tough love:
- Timing: Plant in fall or early spring when temperatures are moderate
- Soil prep: Ensure excellent drainage – amend heavy soils with sand or gravel if needed
- Initial watering: Water regularly the first year to help roots establish, then back off
- Spacing: Give plants room to form their natural clumps
- Mulching: Use gravel or stone mulch rather than organic mulch to prevent moisture retention
The Bottom Line
Desertgrass won’t be the star of every garden, but it’s exactly what you need if you’re creating a water-wise landscape that celebrates regional character. It’s the kind of plant that quietly does its job, year after year, without asking for much in return. Perfect for gardeners who appreciate understated beauty and want to support native ecosystems while dealing with challenging growing conditions.
If you’re working with dry, sunny spots where other plants struggle, or you’re passionate about native landscaping, desertgrass deserves a spot on your plant list. Sometimes the most humble plants turn out to be the most valuable additions to our gardens.
