Quick answer: Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides) is native to 17 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: NRCS, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Sandy |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | 1-2 ft |
| Wildlife value | Seeds for birds and rodents |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Indian ricegrass
Where is Indian ricegrass native?
Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides) is native to 17 states across the Midwest, South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Indian ricegrass bloom?
Indian ricegrass blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Indian ricegrass need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry. Soil: Sandy. Mature height: 1-2 ft.
Is Indian ricegrass good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Seeds for birds and rodents.
Is Indian ricegrass deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Indian ricegrass is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Indian ricegrass?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Achnatherum hymenoides by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Indian ricegrass.
- Creeping Oregon grape Mahonia repens
- Common sunflower Helianthus annuus
- Scarlet globemallow Sphaeralcea coccinea
- Ponderosa pine Pinus ponderosa
- Lewis flax (blue flax) Linum lewisii
- Rubber rabbitbrush Ericameria nauseosa
Also listed under
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