Danthonia spicata (Poverty Grass)

A genuinely tough, deer-proof grass for the poorest, driest ground on a project, poverty grass earns its name by thriving exactly where other species struggle - and its curly, persistent winter foliage doubles as habitat structure for overwintering insects.

Species Overview

Danthonia spicata, also known as Poverty Grass or Curly Oat Grass, is a native cool season perennial tuft-forming short grass. It grows well on dry, rocky, poor soils and tolerates full sun or partial shade while only growing to about 6-12 inches tall. The basal leaves remain for several years, usually becoming dry, brown, and curly, providing distinctive winter interest.

Application

• Restoration on dry, rocky, or nutrient-poor soils where other grasses struggle
• Rock garden and accent groundcover plantings
• Native lawn alternative and green roof applications
• Deer-pressured sites

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Dry, rocky, infertile soils; will decline if soil is too fertile or if shaded by taller plants
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry, poor-soil specialist; not tolerant of standing water.
• Growth Rate: Slow - expands gradually from short rhizomes
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 1-2 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Widespread across Canada and the United States, extending into northern Mexico
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• Associated with frequently-burned sites in the wild - responds well to periodic mowing or burning to suppress competing vegetation.