Koeleria cristata is a clump-forming, cool season grass that grows the most and flowers early, towards the beginning of the year. The blooms appear in late spring through early summer as greenish (later straw-yellow) flowers. It prefers drier, drained soils; it can grow in medium-moist and richer soils too, but the bigger, competitive plants have to be eliminated. Stays in clumps and can be mowed up to several times per year. Can be used in pastures.
Suitable for naturalistic plantings, low prairie-style plantings, green roofs, or dry flower beds. Goes well with Antennaria, Agastache, Asclepias tuberosa, Callirhoe, Dalea, Coreopsis, Echinacea, Monarda punctata, Penstemon, Ruellia, or many introduced perennials.
Blooming Time: April to June
Size: up to 2' tall (with flowers) clumps
USDA Zones: zones 3 to 8/9
Culture: full sun, part shade, drained, shallower, rocky or sandy soils
Moisture Needs: dry to medium
Origin: native to drier short prairies in most of the states, except some southeastern and East Coast states (see the USDA distribution map)
Deer/Rabbit Resistant: yes / probably
Attracts Butterflies or Pollinators: probably some small native pollinators, also supports several species of grasshoppers
Attracts Hummingbirds: no
Pot Size: square 3.5" x 4" deep perennial pot
