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Buffalograss

Bouteloua dactyloides

Buffalograss is the only major turfgrass native to North America — a shortgrass-prairie species that survives on 12 inches of annual rainfall and rarely needs mowing. It makes a soft, gray-green, low-density lawn that is unbeatable for water conservation in the Plains and Mountain West, as long as you accept its relaxed look.

  • Native — evolved for the American prairie
  • Survives on rainfall alone in much of its range
  • Mowing optional (tops out around 4-8 inches)
  • Very low fertility needs
  • Open, soft turf — not a dense showpiece lawn
  • Poor shade and high-traffic tolerance
  • Long winter dormancy

Ideal For

Water-wise lawns in the Plains, Front Range, and high-desert West.

Top Buffalograss Picks

Products where buffalograss is the dominant species in the bag — verified from guaranteed-analysis labels and manufacturer specs, not the front of the bag.