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Purple Lovegrass | Plant Profile

Eragrostis spectabilis, or purple lovegrass, is a clump forming perennial grass that is native to North American meadows. It is a hardy grass, often used for groundcover, that is drought tolerant and does not need exceptionally fertile soil.

Purple lovegrass sends up thin and airy shoots that flaunt purple, red, and blue hues. These seed holding shoots double the height of the grass (2′) in the summer, but will fall off and blow away by fall and disperse seeds along the way.

Eragrostis spectabilis will thrive in full sun with dry soil. Some pruning is required to stimulate new growth.

 

Description

Purple Lovegrass Characteristics

Eragrostis spectabilis has thin bladed green leaves that grow in clumps. In spring and summer the clump will send up “fluffy” shoots with tiny flowers on them. This creates a cloud above the body of the plant with different colored hues.

Used to meadows, purple lovegrass is best planted in open fields or areas that receive direct sunlight for most of the day as it thrive in warm and dry soils. Though drought tolerant, some watering may be required in the hottest months. However, soil should be left to dry between waterings. Soils should have excellent drainage as purple lovegrass naturally grows in sandy soils.

While purple lovegrass does not require fertilizer, it does need pruning up to twice a year. Old stems and dead grass should be cut away a few times per year. Just before winter sets in, mow the grass to only a few inches in height. This is dispose of dormant leaves and encourage new growth in the spring.

This is generally a disease and pest free plant, though spittle bugs may occasionally make an appearance. Pesticides will usually take care of this. Avoid over watering to prevent root rot.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones  5 - 9
Height
1.00 - 2.00'
Spread
1.00 - 2.00'
Bloom Time
July - August
Water
Dry - Medium
Sun
Full Sun
Maintenance
Low
Deer Resistant?
No