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Blue Grama

How to identify Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis)

Blue Grama

Blue Grama is a perennial, warm-season grass characterized by its fine-textured, gray-green foliage, reaching heights of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm). In early summer, this grass displays distinctive horizontal flowers that resemble small, purple flags on stems surpassing the leaves. Seed heads persist into fall, extending the visual interest of this clump-forming species. It thrives in well-drained soil, under full sun, and exhibits a remarkable tolerance to drought and cold conditions.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Blue Grama

1

Fine-textured, gray-green foliage

2

Distinctive horizontal purple flowers

3

Airy clusters of tiny, fan-like florets

4

Dry, tan-colored fruit resembling mosquito larvae

5

Basal tufted leaves, bright green to blue-gray

Blue GramaBlue GramaBlue GramaBlue GramaBlue Grama

Detailed Traits of Blue Grama

Leaf Features

The leaves of blue Grama are bright green to blue-gray, measuring approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) wide. They are fine-textured and have a linear shape, often with a slightly curled or wavy appearance. The leaf surface is smooth, with a distinct vein running along the center. These leaves are dense and form a tufted, basal arrangement which is a key characteristic for identification. Their color and fine structure make them visually striking and distinguishable from other similar grasses.

Leaf Shape

Lanceolate ,
Linear

Leaf Type

Simple

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate ,
Basal

Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Leaf Margin

Entire

Learn About the Leaf Glossary
Group
Flower Features

The flowers of blue Grama bloom from June to August, displaying a hint of purple on arching stems that can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) tall. These delicate blooms exhibit a unique fan-like arrangement, with tiny, feathery florets aligned on one side of the stem. The compact, sparse clusters contribute to the grass's characteristic airy look, making them a definitive feature. Blue Grama flowers lack a noticeable scent, drawing attention primarily through their distinct shape and subtle coloration.

Corolla Type

Apetalous

Inflorescence Type

Spike

Learn About the Flower Glossary
Group
Fruit Features

The fruit of blue Grama is characterized by its distinctive appearance resembling tan-colored mosquito larvae. These grains, known as caryopses, are a hallmark of the Poaceae family, the group to which blue Grama belongs. Measuring just a few millimeters, they are neatly aligned on one side of the inflorescence's stems, forming narrow, elongated clusters that collectively create a fascinating visual effect. The texture of each tiny fruit is dry and hardened, typical of grass species, facilitating wind dispersal. Mature during summer, they provide an identifiable feature for those interested in grass identification.

Fruit Type

Caryopsis

Learn About the Fruit Glossary
Group
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Key Facts About Blue Grama

Attributes of Blue Grama
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Spread
50 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Gray
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Brown
White
Green
Purple
Red
Fruit Color
Cream
Tan
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Scientific Classification of Blue Grama

Family
Grass
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Species
Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis)
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Distribution Map of Blue Grama

Blue Grama is a grass species naturally found in North America's central grassland regions. It has been introduced to and cultivated in various areas across South America, Europe, and Asia. Blue Grama's range extends from native prairies to non-native ecosystems where it adapts and establishes itself, though it is not necessarily considered invasive in these new environments.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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