Bluebunch Wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) is a long-lasting, cool-season bunchgrass that was once one of the dominant native grasses of Cache Valley. This grass sports a blue-green color with symmetrical spikes and dries to a handsome blonde color. This grass can be used in xeric and dry gardens, natural prairie gardens, or to stabalize slopes, and should be top of the list for any eco restoration project.
Photo Credit: Thayne Tuason, USU Extension EcoRestore Utah Portal
Bluebunch Wheatgrass
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish)
Mature Size: 1.5' - 4' tall
Spacing: 1 - 2' apart
Season: Cool-season grass
Light Requirement: Full Sun. Moderately tolerant of shade.
Deer Resistant: No
Salt Tolerant: No, only tolerates weakly saline environments.
Soils: Does well in most types of soil as long as they are well-drained and not overly rich in organic matter.
Bluebunch Wheatgrass is a keystone species for grasslands in the Intermountain West. It is a vital forage plant, provides habitat and cover for birds and small mammals, and it improves the soil for other plant species surrounding it.