Also known as Lovegrass · 235 saves
Eragrostis
Eragrostis, the genus most gardeners know as lovegrass. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Eragrostis varieties
Browse all 4 Eragrostis varieties →
Track your Eragrostis in Sow
Save the Eragrostis you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Eragrostis
Whats common across all Eragrostis varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Eragrostis year
- DivideMarch and April100% of varieties
Divide clumps in spring every few years to maintain vigor.
- PlantMarch, April and September75% of varieties
Plant or sow seeds in spring after the last frost date.
- Spring CleanupFebruary50% of varieties
Cut back foliage to the ground in late winter before new growth emerges.
- PruneFebruary50% of varieties
Cut back all old foliage to 2-3 inches before new growth starts.
Do
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years
- Remove dead foliage in late winter
- Provide full sun for best flowering and form.
- Embrace its self-seeding nature for naturalized drifts.
- Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring.
Avoid
- Overwater in winter ❌
- Do not plant in shade, as it will become floppy and not flower well.
- Avoid overly rich or fertile soil, which can lead to weak growth.
- Do not overwater once the plant is established.
What goes wrong with Eragrostis
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| None significant | This plant is generally pest-free. | Maintain good garden hygiene and proper cultural conditions. |
| Rust | Small, reddish-brown pustules on leaf blades, especially in humid weather. | Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly. Remove and destroy heavily infected foliage. Fungicides are rarely necessary. |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Fungal leaf spot | Brown spots on foliage | Improve air circulation and apply organic fungicide |
Making more Eragrostis
Seed
- Sow seeds directly outdoors in fall or spring.
- Lightly rake seeds into the soil surface as they need light to germinate.
- Keep the area moist until germination occurs.
- Germination typically takes 2-3 weeks in warm soil.
Division
- Dig up the entire clump in early spring.
- Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the clump into smaller sections.
- Ensure each division has a healthy set of roots and shoots.
- Replant the divisions immediately and water well.
Eragrostis questions
How many types of Eragrostis are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Eragrostis varieties. The most popular — ranked by 235 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Eragrostis grow in?
Across its varieties, Eragrostis covers USDA Zones 5–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Eragrostis bloom?
Most Eragrostis varieties bloom in late summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Eragrostis should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.