Common Velvetgrass: Why This Soft-Looking Grass Isn’t So Gentle on Your Garden
If you’ve ever encountered a patch of unusually soft, gray-green grass that feels almost fuzzy to the touch, you’ve likely met common velvetgrass (Holcus lanatus). While its velvety texture might seem appealing, this European native has become a widespread concern across North America, and here’s what every gardener should know about it.
What Is Common Velvetgrass?
Common velvetgrass is a perennial grass that lives up to its name with distinctively soft, velvety foliage that has a white-gray tint. Also known by the synonym Nothoholcus lanatus, this grass forms multiple stems in an erect growth pattern and can reach heights of up to 3.3 feet. Don’t let its innocent, fuzzy appearance fool you – this grass has some serious staying power.
Where You’ll Find It (Whether You Want To or Not)
Originally from Europe and western Asia, common velvetgrass has made itself thoroughly at home across virtually all of North America. It’s established in every U.S. state, all Canadian provinces, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. This widespread distribution tells us everything we need to know about how adaptable and persistent this grass can be.
The Not-So-Velvet Glove: Why Gardeners Should Be Cautious
Here’s where things get tricky. Common velvetgrass is classified as non-native throughout North America, and it’s listed as a noxious weed with restricted seed status in at least one location. This grass reproduces spontaneously in the wild and tends to persist wherever it establishes – classic invasive behavior.
Key concerns include:
- Aggressive spread and persistence in various habitats
- Limited ornamental value despite its soft texture
- Potential to outcompete native grass species
- Difficult to control once established
Growing Conditions (If You Encounter It)
Understanding where common velvetgrass thrives can help you identify and manage it. This adaptable grass tolerates:
- USDA hardiness zones 3-10 (survives temperatures down to -23°F)
- pH levels from 4.0 to 7.0
- Both coarse and medium-textured soils
- Low to medium moisture conditions
- Intermediate shade tolerance
- Various wetland conditions depending on the region
The grass has a moderate growth rate with active growth occurring primarily in spring. It blooms in summer with inconspicuous green flowers, followed by seed production through fall.
Our Recommendation: Look Elsewhere for Your Lawn
Given its non-native status, noxious classification, and weedy characteristics, we strongly recommend against intentionally planting common velvetgrass. While it might seem like an easy, low-maintenance grass option, its aggressive nature and lack of benefits to local ecosystems make it a poor choice for responsible gardening.
Better Alternatives: Native Grass Options
Instead of common velvetgrass, consider these native alternatives that provide similar low-maintenance benefits without the ecological concerns:
- Buffalo grass (Poaceae family) for drought-tolerant lawns
- Native sedges (Carex species) for varied textures
- Regional native bunch grasses for naturalized areas
- Native fine fescues where appropriate
If It’s Already There: Management Tips
If you discover common velvetgrass in your landscape, early intervention is key. The grass spreads primarily by seed, with slow spread rates but persistent establishment. Hand-pulling small patches before seed set can be effective, though the plant’s moderate regrowth ability means you’ll need to stay vigilant.
For larger infestations, consult with local extension services or invasive species management programs for appropriate control strategies that won’t harm desirable native plants.
The Bottom Line
While common velvetgrass might win points for its uniquely soft texture, its invasive nature and minimal ecological benefits make it a grass we’re better off without in our gardens. By choosing native alternatives instead, we can create beautiful, low-maintenance landscapes that support local wildlife and ecosystems – now that’s something worth feeling good about.
