

How to identify Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis)
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.
Fine-textured, gray-green foliage
Distinctive horizontal purple flowers
Airy clusters of tiny, fan-like florets
Dry, tan-colored fruit resembling mosquito larvae
Basal tufted leaves, bright green to blue-gray
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.
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.
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.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Blue Grama