Squaw Grass
Leymus triticoides
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Pl. 8520 — Leymus triticoides
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IOverview
Overview
Squaw Grass, known botanically as Leymus triticoides, is a perennial graminoid found in the native ranges of Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and various regions of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to diverse environments. It grows up to 1.2 meters tall and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 6 to 9. Squaw Grass is notable for its edible seeds, which are often harvested for consumption. Its ability to grow in various soil types and climates makes it a valuable addition to gardens and natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Squaw Grass?
Squaw Grass, known botanically as Leymus triticoides, is a perennial graminoid found in the native ranges of Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and various regions of Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Squaw Grass thrives in full sun and can tolerate dry to moist conditions, making it adaptable to various environments. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 6 to 9. This perennial grass grows up to 1.2 meters tall and is commonly found in regions like Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. The edible parts are the seeds, which can be harvested for consumption. Propagate via seed or division.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
1.2 m tall
Soil pH
6–9
For first-time growers
How to grow Squaw Grass for the first time
8steps
Start with Squaw Grass as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A packet of seeds or small plants, a trowel, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that can be dry to moist. Ensure it gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting roots, then reduce watering as it establishes itself.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only when the soil is dry and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune dead foliage in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead or damaged parts of the plant to maintain its health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners face.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seed of Squaw Grass is edible and can be harvested for consumption. Typically, the seeds are collected when ripe and may be eaten raw or ground into a flour for use in various culinary applications. Skip
Other uses:Weaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
15 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
15 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 15 native· 1 introduced
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Wyoming, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 85204267-b1ec-4263-a392-b1fcbe2bb900
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