This common species is a clumping summer annual grass with open, branching flower heads that shimmer in the sun. It forms bushy clumps up to 3 feet tall in full or part sun and dry to moist soils. The leaves and seeds are an important source of food for many species of birds and mammals.
Native habitats include disturbed areas, including road ditches, field margins, empty lots, and domestic yards and gardens.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows up to 3' tall.
Prefers full or part sun.
Prefers dry to moist, disturbed soils.
Blooms June-November.
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for 27 Lepidoptera species, including northern pearly eye and northern broken dash butterflies, hobomok and other skippers, the pink-streak moth, and 12 specialist moths, Seeds are a high-energy food source for songbirds, game birds, and small mammals. Clumping growth habit offers excellent cover and nesting sites for birds and shelter for beneficial insects. Also supports soil health and erosion control with its dense root system.
Resources:
Minnesota Wildflowers
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/grass-sedge-rush/witchgrass
University of California
