UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA
University of California
UC Master Gardeners, Santa Clara County, CA

Water Wise Plants

Buchloe dactyloides (UC Verde)

Pronunciation
BOOK-chlo-ee DAK-tah-loydes
Common Name
California Buffalograss
Plant Type
Grass
Mature Size
4–6 in. high, spreading
Water Requirements
Moderate: water weekly until the root ball is wet
Sun/Shade Requirements
Full to half sun
Wildlife
Flower Color
Maintenance- Design- Planting Tips

Design use: Conventional lawn substitute for pets and kids to play on if mowed; meadow if left unmowed.

California Buffalograss is a durable grass with soft green leaves. It is a warm season grass, winter dormant, has a deep root system, and spreads by above-ground stolons. A U.S. native grass, it is low maintenance, drought tolerant, and almost pollen-free. Use a slow-release fertilizer in June and August. Mow to 2–3 in. height in summer or mow once a year for a meadow landscape.

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