Five great water-wise turf grasses have been planted in the demonstration garden at Soquel Creek Water District located at 5180 Soquel Drive at the Corner of Soquel Drive and Rosedale Ave) The grasses in our demo- garden were planted in Spring, 2008. Come See them growing! (photos on the right are mature grasses.) 

Agrostis hallii - Bent Grass: An excellent water-wise native lawn.  Rhizomatous perennial grass grows to 1 ft in height. Bright green color.  Will turn slightly golden red in summer for short period.  Found in open oak woodlands or coniferous forest near coast.  For a manicured lawn, mow to 3". This photo shows the grass unmowed.

Bouteloua gracilis  -  Blue Gramma: An elegant and unusual water-wise native lawn.  Tufted perennial bunchgrass.  Grows to 1 to 2 ft tall in height and 1ft in width. Foliage is green with root depth of 1ft.  Blooms in early summer and has red hue in the beginning of summer that bleaches to white from sun exposure. Produces irridescent seed heads that resemble eyelashes. Grows during the warm season. For a manicured lawn, mow to 4".

Koeleria macrantha 'Barkoel'  -  Prairie Junegrass: A suitable water-wise, low maintenance lawn. Upright, tufted bunch grass grows to 1 1/2 feet tall. 'Barkoel' is a selection from Europe but well suited for California. Long-lived and slowly rhizomatous.  Has shining, spike-like flower stalks. Prefers hot summers without water and can tolerate light shade.  Adaptable to rocky and sandy soils and is useful in hot difficult situations.  For a manicured lawn, mow to 3".

Festuca rubra 'Molate Blue'  -  Red Fescue: A beautiful natural looking native lawn.  Fine-leafed bunch grass grows to 1 to 2 ft tall.  Presents a graceful windswept look when allowed to grow to maximum height, yet takes well to occasional mowing.  On slope presents a fluid impression akin to a water cascade.  Can be used to create a meadow with wildflowers and other grasses.  For a manicured lawn, mow to 4".