What is Border Grass?

Christopher Jul 25, 2026

Border grass, also known as buffalo grass or blue grama, is a type of perennial grass native to the Great Plains region of North America. It is a highly adaptable and resilient species that can thrive in a wide range of environments, making it a popular choice for landscaping and conservation efforts.

38 Garden Borders With Grasses
38 Garden Borders With Grasses

Border grass is a deep-rooted grass that can tolerate drought, heat, and cold temperatures, making it an ideal choice for areas with harsh weather conditions. Its deep root system allows it to survive with minimal watering, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and maintenance.

19+ Inspiring Ornamental Grass Border Ideas
19+ Inspiring Ornamental Grass Border Ideas

Types of Border Grass

There are several species of border grass, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. Some of the most common types include:

an image of a garden with plants and flowers in it, including grass growing on the ground
an image of a garden with plants and flowers in it, including grass growing on the ground

Buffalo Grass (Bouteloua gracilis)

Buffalo grass is the most common type of border grass and is native to the Great Plains region. It is a low-maintenance grass that requires minimal watering and mowing. It is also a great choice for areas with poor soil quality, as it can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

20 Garden Borders Ideas With Grasses You'll Want to Copy
20 Garden Borders Ideas With Grasses You'll Want to Copy

Buffalo grass is also a popular choice for erosion control, as its deep root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent landslides.

Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua arbuscula)

Blue grama grass is another type of border grass that is native to the Great Plains region. It is a drought-tolerant grass that can thrive in areas with limited water supply. Blue grama grass is also a great choice for areas with poor soil quality, as it can tolerate a wide range of soil types.

Backyard Grass Border Ideas for a Fresh Green Look
Backyard Grass Border Ideas for a Fresh Green Look

Blue grama grass is also a popular choice for wildlife habitats, as it provides food and shelter for various species of birds and animals.

Benefits of Border Grass

Border grass has several benefits that make it a popular choice for landscaping and conservation efforts. Some of the most notable benefits include:

Beautiful Garden Borders with Grasses to Elevate Your Landscape
Beautiful Garden Borders with Grasses to Elevate Your Landscape

Low Maintenance

Border grass requires minimal maintenance, making it a great choice for areas with limited resources. It can tolerate drought, heat, and cold temperatures, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and mowing.

Gorgeous Grasses: Craft a Serene Border
Gorgeous Grasses: Craft a Serene Border
How to plant a border like a pro
How to plant a border like a pro
a lawn with blue plants and numbers on it in front of the grass is shown
a lawn with blue plants and numbers on it in front of the grass is shown
Top 37 Garden Edging Border Ideas: Spruce Up The Landscape
Top 37 Garden Edging Border Ideas: Spruce Up The Landscape
an image of a garden with blue and green plants in the center, surrounded by numbers
an image of a garden with blue and green plants in the center, surrounded by numbers
25+ Lawn Border Ideas to Define Your Garden Beautifully
25+ Lawn Border Ideas to Define Your Garden Beautifully
an outdoor garden with grass and gravel in front of a white building on the sidewalk
an outdoor garden with grass and gravel in front of a white building on the sidewalk
Contemporary cottage garden style - the power of the 70/30 rule
Contemporary cottage garden style - the power of the 70/30 rule
the cover of designing with grasses create a garden with forms that complement each other, including stone steps
the cover of designing with grasses create a garden with forms that complement each other, including stone steps

Border grass is also a great choice for areas with poor soil quality, as it can tolerate a wide range of soil types and requires minimal fertilization.

Wildlife Habitat

Border grass provides a habitat for various species of birds and animals. It provides food and shelter for these species, making it a great choice for areas with limited resources.

Border grass is also a popular choice for wildlife corridors, as it provides a connection between fragmented habitats and allows species to migrate and disperse.

Border grass is a highly adaptable and resilient species that can thrive in a wide range of environments. Its benefits make it a popular choice for landscaping and conservation efforts. Whether you're looking for a low-maintenance grass or a wildlife habitat, border grass is an excellent choice for your next project.