Buffalo Grass is the ultimate low-maintenance turf alternative, offering a rugged and water-wise solution for sunny landscapes. This legendary shortgrass species once covered vast stretches of the American Great Plains, supporting massive herds of bison. A warm-season perennial, it is incredibly tough, reaching only four to eight inches in height and spreading via stolons to form a dense, soft sod. Its fine-textured, grayish-green leaves turn a beautiful golden-tan in the winter. Native to the central United States and Mexico, it is perfectly adapted to dry, heavy soils and extreme temperatures. It is exceptionally drought-tolerant, with roots reaching up to five feet deep, and requires far less mowing and water than traditional lawn grasses. Beyond its use as a lawn, it provides vital habitat for ground-nesting birds. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for sustainable landscaping and erosion control.

Quick facts

• Height: 4–8 in
• Sun: Full
• Soil moisture: Medium to Dry
• Bloom time: May–Aug
• Life cycle: Perennial
• Native range: Native to 22 states, including Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska

See the full growing guide and county range map for Buffalo Grass