Crested Wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum)

Crested Wheatgrass

Agropyron cristatum

Tough, clumping grass with fine, textured foliage. Cool-season perennial grass; common name: crested wheatgrass.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates extended drought and cold temperatures
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil dries out; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Extremely cold-hardy; tolerates moderate summer heat up to 30°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, flat or rolled, blue-green to gray-green, 10–20 cm long
  • Flower: Dense, spiky inflorescences (spikes) with crested spikelets, pale green to tan
  • Stem: Slender, upright culms forming tight, compact clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Water every 7–10 days during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer once. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive, weak foliage growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in slowly to release calcium over time
Pruning
  • Mow or trim to 5–7 cm height in late fall to remove dead foliage and promote spring regrowth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Remove seed heads in late summer to prevent unwanted self-seeding
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Forage for livestock; erosion control on slopes; ornamental ground cover