American Slough Grass

About American Slough Grass

American Slough Grass is a fast-growing, cool-season annual grass that provides immediate emerald-green cover in wet, low-lying areas. Reaching 1 to 3 feet tall, this bunchgrass is easily identified by its unique, flattened seed heads that resemble stacked pancakes or small zippers. These distinctive heads appear from June through August, adding a whimsical texture to wetland landscapes. Widely distributed across North America, it thrives in marshes, sloughs, and along the edges of ponds and streams. The seeds provide an excellent food source for waterfowl and songbirds, while the dense foliage offers cover for small wildlife. It requires full sun and wet to medium-wet soils, demonstrating high anaerobic tolerance for seasonal flooding. An excellent choice for erosion control and wetland restoration, it germinates quickly and will readily re-seed itself if given open, muddy ground. Its palatability also makes it a valuable component of native grazing lands.