Bouteloua chondrosioides, commonly known as Sprucetop Grama, is a deciduous perennial grass native to open grasslands, arid plains, and desert regions in the Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It is a small, drought-tolerant bunchgrass that typically grows to about 1 foot (0.30 m) tall in its natural habitat. Under ideal conditions, Sprucetop Grama can reach up to 3 feet (0.91 m) in height and can exhibit characteristics similar to turfgrass, making it suitable for use as a low-maintenance lawn alternative. The plant’s flowers are spikate with bright orange anthers, blooming from July through August, and are quite showy for a grass species. Seeds are produced and dispersed from September through October. Sprucetop can also be propagated through rootstock division. The inflorescences are racemes containing 3 to 7 spikes, each bearing 7 to 13 perfect spikelets. Leaves are mostly basal with short sheaths and are mildly furrowed, contributing to the grass’s textured appearance. The root system is strong and fibrous, which helps the plant establish in less-than-ideal soil conditions.

Sprucetop Grama is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in arid environments. It is also used for erosion control on slopes and as a component of native grass mixes for wildlife habitats. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and does best with medium water availability, preferring soils with fast drainage and a slightly acidic pH. While it lacks a central taproot, its fibrous roots can help stabilize soil. Potential problems include overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and susceptibility to rust in humid conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0