Back to species databaseGrass / Sedge / Rush

Blue Joint Grass

Calamagrostis canadensis

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Category
Grass / Sedge / Rush
Sun
Full to Partial
Soil moisture
Wet to Medium
Bloom time
Jun–Aug
Notes
Cool, Aggressive, Rhizomatous

About Blue Joint Grass

Blue Joint Grass is a majestic and widespread native grass that defines the beauty of North American wetlands. One of the most abundant and ecologically important grasses on the continent, it is known for its ability to form expansive, shimmering stands in moist areas. Growing three to five feet tall, it features slender, upright stems and bluish-green leaves. In early summer, it produces airy, feathery flower spikes that often have a purple or bronze tint, transitioning to a warm tan as they mature. Native to almost every corner of North America, it is found in marshes, wet meadows, and along shorelines. This grass is a powerhouse for wildlife, providing essential nesting cover for waterfowl and songbirds. It is also highly effective at stabilizing soil and filtering runoff. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and wet to medium soils. Note that it can be aggressive in ideal conditions, making it perfect for large-scale restoration and shoreline stabilization.

Native range

Native to 41 states:

AlaskaArizonaCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareGeorgiaIowaIdahoIllinoisIndianaKansasKentuckyMassachusettsMarylandMaineMichiganMinnesotaMissouriMontanaNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNebraskaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNevadaNew YorkOhioOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth DakotaTennesseeUtahVirginiaVermontWashingtonWisconsinWest VirginiaWyoming

County range map

BONAP county-level native range map for Calamagrostis canadensis

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).

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