Science · Turfgrasses
Buffalograss
A native Great Plains prairie grass that thrives with minimal water, fertilizer and mowing.
Bouteloua dactyloides · Warm-season native turfgrass
Profile
- Climate
- Great Plains; USDA 4–9
- Sun
- Full sun
- Mowing height
- 2–4 in or unmowed
- Spread
- Stolons
- Inputs
- Very low
- pH
- 6.0–8.0
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- ~12–20%
- Salinity tolerance
- Moderate
- Drought tolerance
- Excellent
Overwatering lets weeds and other grasses out-compete it.
Problems to watch
- Weed invasion
- Chinch bugs
Stress signs
- Dormant tan color in drought (normal)
- Weed takeover in wet areas
Where you'll find it
- Low-water commercial and municipal turf
- Rough and naturalized areas
More turfgrasses
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.