Eragrostis spectabilis aka Purple Love Grass

Eragrostis spectabilis, or purple love grass, is a perennial grass. Its native range runs from southern Canada to northeastern Mexico. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Wild plants grow in sandy fields, roadsides, and woods. This warm-season plant forms dense clumps and rests in winter. Short rhizomes let the clumps spread at a slow pace.

Garden size varies among sources. NC State gives heights of 0.7–1.2 feet [0.2–0.36 metres]. Chicago Botanic Garden reports plants reaching 2 feet [0.61 metres]. RHS gives height and spread as 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. NC State lists narrower spreads of 0.8–1.3 feet [0.25–0.41 metres]. The flat, narrow leaves form a low, loose mound. Each blade can reach about 0.8 feet [0.25 metres] long. Dull green leaves have hairs on both sides and feel rough. Fall brings brown, copper, or red tones before the leaves die back.

Loose panicles hold small pink to red-purple flowers above the leaves. Their fine branches give the plant a light, cloudlike look. Chicago and Missouri Botanical Garden list bloom in July and August. NC State records a later display, from August through October. The flower heads turn soft brown as the season ends. Tiny, dark brown grains ripen from September through November. Wind carries the dry seeds away from the plant. The grass draws songbirds and small mammals to the garden.

Grow this grass in full sun with soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, and clay, and tolerates poor soil. RHS also lists chalk and acid, neutral, or alkaline soils. Dry to moderately moist ground suits it. The plant withstands heat and drought, with low upkeep needs. Sources list USDA zones 5–9; RHS assigns UK hardiness H4. Plants may need winter protection in colder UK sites. Cut old stems to ground level before spring growth starts. Raise new plants from seed or divide established clumps.

Use groups in borders, meadows, or native plant beds. The flower heads suit fresh and dried arrangements. It can also serve as ground cover or a lawn substitute. It accepts light foot traffic, but not heavy wear. Serious pest and disease trouble is uncommon. Aphids, spittlebugs, and leaf spot can occur.