How to Grow Lovegrass
Wikimedia Commons
Lovegrass
Eragrostis species
grassLovegrass is a diverse genus of warm-season ornamental and forage grasses known for their fine, delicate texture and feathery seed heads that create airy, graceful movement in the garden. These drought-tolerant grasses are popular for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and naturalistic landscaping. Several species are widely cultivated for their ornamental value and ecological benefits.
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Example Lovegrass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lovegrass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lovegrass
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lovegrass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-10, depending on species; most common ornamental types do well in zones 6-9
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Get my Lovegrass timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksFine grass seedlings emerge as thin shoots; plants are delicate and small
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect from foot traffic; avoid heavy mulch over seeds
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksClumps expand with increasing foliage; fine, narrow leaf blades develop; plants become more sturdy
Water during dry spells if needed; minimal fertilizer required; divide established clumps in spring if desired
Flowering & Seed Head Development
4-8 weeksDelicate, feathery panicles emerge on fine stems; seed heads are airy and ornamental, ranging from pink to purple to bronze
No deadheading needed; leave seed heads for aesthetic appeal and wildlife food; avoid excess nitrogen to prevent lodging
Seed Maturation & Dormancy
8-12 weeksSeed heads mature and dry; foliage may bronze or discolor in cool weather; plants remain semi-dormant
Leave seed heads standing for wildlife benefit; allow self-seeding if desired; cut back in late winter or early spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rarely problematic; remove by hand if found; encourage natural predators
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Treat only if severe; use insecticidal soap or encourage predatory birds
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Hand-pick; generally not a significant issue; improve neighboring plant vigor
Uses
Wildlife Food Source
CulinaryLovegrass seeds provide nutritious food for songbirds, game birds, and small mammals throughout fall and winter. Leaving seed heads standing creates a natural food source that supports wildlife without supplemental feeding. [source]
Ornamental & Landscape Design
HouseholdThe delicate, feathery seed heads and fine texture add airy grace to gardens and naturalistic landscapes. Lovegrass provides movement and visual interest with minimal maintenance required. [source]
Erosion Control & Habitat Restoration
EcologicalLovegrass roots stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and disturbed areas. The plant establishes quickly and provides nesting and shelter habitat for ground-nesting birds and small wildlife. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Floristry
CraftThe delicate, persistent seed heads make excellent additions to dried flower arrangements and floral designs. They can be used fresh-cut or dried for long-term storage and are especially valued for their airy, ethereal quality. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested; allow seed heads to mature fully on the plant for ornamental effect (August-October depending on species). For seed collection, harvest mature seed heads before they shatter, dry indoors, and store in cool, dry conditions. Cut back dead foliage in late winter before new growth emerges in spring.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'lovegrass' comes from the delicate, feathery appearance of the seed heads, which some say resemble lovers' breath or romantic imagery.
- 🌱 Some lovegrass species (Eragrostis chloromelas and E. curvula) are invasive in certain regions and should be used cautiously; choose non-invasive species for your area.
- 🌱 Lovegrass is extremely drought-tolerant and can survive on as little as 10-15 inches of annual rainfall, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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