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California bentgrass

Scientific Name: Agrostis densiflora

Family: Poaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Graminoid

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Native Bentgrass (Agrostis pallens)

Native Bentgrass (Agrostis pallens) is a cool-season perennial grass gaining popularity as a drought-tolerant lawn alternative, particularly in California. It's known for its durability, recovery properties, and dark green color. Native Bentgrass is marketed as Native Bentgrass™.

Considerations for Pets

  • Forms a dense mat, which may harbor insects or other small creatures that could be of interest to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Agrostis pallens
  • Common Names: Native Bent Grass, California Bent Grass, California Bentgrass
  • Also mentioned: Agrostis hallii (Hall's Bentgrass) and Agrostis densiflora (California bent grass).
  • Another bentgrass species, *Agrostis palustris* (Creeping Bentgrass), is mentioned in the context of golf greens.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to California, British Columbia, and Montana.
  • Found in many plant communities throughout California, including the subalpine zone.
  • Agrostis densiflora is specifically noted as endemic to the coast of northern and central California.

Ecological Role

  • Used to replace water-thirsty lawns and exotic gardens with California native grasses.
  • It's described as a drought-tolerant, water-conserving alternative.
  • Can be considered a weed grass in some contexts.
  • The California Invasive Plant Council has addressed wildland weeds.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Perennial grass with moderate growth and spread rates.
  • Low-growing.
  • Creates a dark green turf mat.
  • Left to grow naturally, it creates a graceful meadow.

Usage and Applications

  • Used for lawns, particularly in California, as a drought-tolerant alternative to traditional lawns.
  • Can be used in native lawn areas.
  • Creeping bentgrass is primarily used for golf courses, especially greens.
  • Also utilized in biofiltration sod.

Further Information

  • Houzz.com features design ideas and photos of Native California Bent Grass lawns.
  • The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources is a resource.