How to Grow Weeping Lovegrass
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Weeping Lovegrass
Eragrostis curvula
grassWeeping lovegrass is a warm-season perennial grass native to South Africa, characterized by fine, delicate foliage and graceful, arching growth habit. It produces delicate, feathery seed heads that droop elegantly, creating a fountain-like appearance in the landscape. This ornamental grass is valued for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and aesthetic appeal in gardens and rangelands.
When should you plant Weeping Lovegrass in your zone?
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Example Weeping Lovegrass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Weeping 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 Weeping Lovegrass
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Weeping Lovegrass dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-10, with winter hardiness improving in well-drained soils
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Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksSeeds germinate in 7-14 days with adequate moisture and warmth. Tiny grass shoots emerge with minimal root development.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light immediately. Thin seedlings to appropriate spacing once 2-3 inches tall.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeksPlant develops fine, hair-like foliage and an expanding root system. Growth is relatively slow in first season, then accelerates.
Water moderately as plant establishes. Light fertilizing optional; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote soft growth. Remove any dead foliage.
Tillering & Clump Formation
8-16 weeksPlant produces multiple shoots from the base, forming a dense, fountain-like mound of fine-textured foliage.
Gradually reduce watering as drought tolerance increases. No deadheading needed; let plant develop naturally. Foliage remains attractive year-round in mild climates.
Flowering & Seed Production
6-12 weeksDelicate, feathery panicles emerge on slender, arching stems, creating the characteristic weeping effect. Seed heads mature from green to tan.
Allow seed heads to develop for wildlife food and ornamental effect. Do not fertilize; this weakens the graceful form. Enjoy the feathery plumes.
Dormancy & Winter
3-5 months (varies by zone)Foliage turns golden-brown or copper-colored. Plant goes dormant in cooler zones; remains somewhat green in warmer regions.
Leave standing for winter interest and wildlife shelter; do not cut back until early spring before new growth emerges. Mulch in zone 5-6 for winter protection.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Usually minor issue; remove by hand if noticed. Beneficial insects typically control infestations naturally.
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Ensure adequate air circulation. Remove affected foliage. Apply fungicide only if severe; improve drainage and spacing.
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Rare; monitor for stippled, yellowing patches. Maintain plant vigor with proper irrigation. Insecticidal soap if severe.
Uses
Seed Source & Habitat
WildlifeWeeping lovegrass produces abundant small seeds that birds and small mammals feed on, making it excellent for wildlife gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes. [source]
Erosion Control & Soil Stabilization
HouseholdDeep root system helps prevent soil erosion on slopes and disturbed areas, making it valuable for land reclamation and rangeland restoration. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Floral Design
CraftFeathery, gracefully arching seed heads dry beautifully and last for months, making them ideal for dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and decorative displays. [source]
Livestock Forage
CulinaryNutritious grass used as pasture and rangeland forage, particularly valuable in arid regions where it establishes readily and provides reliable grazing. [source]
Ornamental Landscape Feature
HouseholdThe fine-textured, weeping form creates year-round visual interest in gardens, borders, and mixed plantings with minimal maintenance requirements. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested as a crop. Collect seeds in late fall when panicles turn tan and seeds shatter easily by rubbing between hands. Use dried seed heads fresh in arrangements or let them stand in the landscape. Cut back foliage in early spring (March-April in colder zones) before new growth emerges.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Weeping lovegrass is named for its distinctly graceful, drooping seed heads that create a fountain-like effect unmatched among most ornamental grasses—a single mature plant can produce over 50,000 seeds in favorable conditions.
- 🌱 Native to South Africa, this heat and drought-loving grass has become naturalized in many arid and semi-arid regions worldwide, making it a valuable tool for rangeland restoration and desertification prevention.
- 🌱 The fine, delicate foliage of weeping lovegrass can move beautifully in even gentle breezes, creating a shimmering, dynamic visual effect that makes it appear to dance in the landscape.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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