Species PlantsBlue Grama

Blue Grama

Bouteloua gracilis

CommonPlant
Illustration of Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis)

Blue Grama is the dominant grass of the shortgrass prairie and one of the most drought-tolerant native grasses in North America. Its distinctive comma-shaped seed heads resemble eyelashes and give it a decorative appearance. It provides essential forage for bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs while supporting diverse invertebrate communities.

Habitat
Shortgrass prairie, dry plains, and rocky hillsides of the Great Plains
Diet
Grazed by bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs; seeds eaten by songbirds
How common
Common

Best time to see a Blue Grama

The best time to see a Blue Grama is June–October, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,375 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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