Looking for a grass that's not so massive?

Consider blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis). The seed heads of this prairie native top out at about 2 feet, and its gray-green foliage clump is less than half that. Plus, it's a beauty and a bird magnet. Reddish-purple blooms appear in late summer, followed by seeds borne in a crescent shape at the tip of a slender stalk. In fall, its blades turn purple and then soft yellow.

Common names: Blue grama grass, mosquito grass
Botanical name: Bouteloua gracilis
Plant type: Perennial grass
Zones: 3 to 9
Height: About 2 feet
Family: Poaceae

Growing conditions
• Sun: Full sun
• Soil: Average to poor; well-drained
• Moisture: Average to dry; drought-tolerant when established

Care
• Mulch: None needed
• Pruning: Cut back last year's foliage in the spring.
• Fertilizer: None needed
 

more about blue grama grass.