How to Grow Native Grasses (Lomandra & Poa species)
Native Grasses (Lomandra & Poa species)
Lomandra spp., Poa spp.
grassNative grasses are perennial ornamental and functional grasses adapted to specific regional climates and soil conditions. Lomandra species are Australian native tufted grasses known for hardiness and fine texture, while Poa species (bluegrass) are cool-season grasses found across North America and temperate regions. These grasses provide ecological benefits, erosion control, wildlife habitat, and low-maintenance landscaping solutions.
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Example Native Grasses (Lomandra & Poa species) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Native Grasses (Lomandra & Poa species)
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 Native Grasses (Lomandra & Poa species)
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species; Poa species thrive in zones 2-8 (cool-season), Lomandra in zones 8-11 (warm-season)
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Germination & Seedling
2-4 weeksFine, delicate grass blades emerge from soil; very small root system establishing.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Protect from foot traffic and heavy wind. Maintain steady light conditions.
Establishment
4-8 weeksSeedlings develop deeper root systems and begin forming tillers (side shoots). Plant grows to 4-6 inches tall.
Reduce watering frequency as roots deepen. Avoid heavy fertilizer. Remove weeds competing for resources.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsGrass forms dense clumps with multiple tillers. Foliage reaches mature height (12-48 inches depending on species).
Minimal water once established. Allow to grow without mowing during first year. No fertilizer needed for natives.
Flowering & Seed Production
4-8 weeksUpright seed heads emerge above foliage. Flowers are inconspicuous but seed heads provide visual interest and wildlife food.
Allow seed heads to mature and persist for wildlife habitat and winter interest. Do not cut back yet.
Dormancy & Renewal
3-5 months depending on climateCool-season grasses (Poa) may go dormant in summer heat or brown in winter. Warm-season natives (some Lomandra) persist year-round.
Cut back dormant Poa in late winter/early spring (2-3 inches). Allow Lomandra to shed dead foliage naturally or lightly comb out dead matter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Beneficial insects, neem oil spray; rarely problematic in native plantings
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Natural predators, spinosad if severe; not typically serious
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Improve drainage, reduce nitrogen, allow air circulation; rarely affects well-draining natives
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Remove affected areas, improve plant vigor; rarely serious
Uses
Wildlife Habitat & Food Source
WildlifeNative grasses provide critical nesting material, shelter, and seed food for birds, insects, and small mammals. Leave standing seed heads through winter for migratory birds and overwintering beneficial insects. [source]
Erosion Control & Slope Stabilization
HouseholdDeep, fibrous root systems prevent soil erosion and improve water infiltration. Ideal for erosion-prone areas, stormwater management, and green infrastructure. [source]
Ornamental & Landscape Design
CraftGraceful foliage and seed heads add texture, movement, and seasonal interest to gardens. Used in pollinator gardens, meadows, and low-maintenance perennial landscapes. [source]
Water Conservation & Drought Tolerance
HouseholdOnce established, native grasses require minimal supplemental water compared to conventional lawns, reducing irrigation needs and maintenance costs. [source]
Food & Forage (Select Species)
CulinarySome native grass species produce edible seeds and grains historically used by indigenous peoples. Certain Poa species are palatable forage for livestock. [source]
Harvest Tips
Native grasses are ornamental and functional; do not traditionally 'harvest.' However, allow seed heads to mature (late summer through fall) for wildlife food and self-seeding. Cut back cool-season grasses in late winter/early spring to 3 inches. Leave warm-season grasses standing through winter, then cut in early spring. Collect dried seed heads for crafts or seed collection by hand-stripping ripe seeds into a bag.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lomandra species can live 20+ years and are nearly indestructible; they tolerate extreme heat, cold, drought, flooding, and poor soil better than most plants.
- 🌱 Native grass root systems extend 6-15 feet deep, sequestering vast amounts of carbon and creating soil structure that conventional plants cannot match.
- 🌱 A single mature native grass plant can produce thousands of seeds; allowing natural seed drop creates self-sustaining meadows with zero replanting effort.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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