Matted Grama

Bouteloua simplex

Native to:
Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panamá, Peru, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Poaceae
Genus:
Bouteloua
Species:
Bouteloua simplex
USDA Symbol:
BOSI2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Graminoid
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
purple, green
Lawn Substitute:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Tolerates fire; can increase in frequency after fire due to reduced competition.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid and semi-arid regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate readily without pretreatment in warm soil.