Danthonia spicata

Considered a “pioneer species,” this cool season clump forming grass, with blue-green leaves about 4-6” high, is useful as a ground cover or for erosion control; Its rhizomes and deep roots strongly hold soil. Low maintenance, often used in restoration projects, rock gardens, or in perennial borders. Old leaves turn light brown and stay at the base of the grass clumps, adding color variety. A host for Leonard’s Skipper and Indian Skipper caterpillars, deer do not like it. Becasue it can thrive in poor conditions, it earned the name Poverty Oatgrass.