purple lovegrass
Eragrostis spectabilis (purple lovegrass) is a North American warm season grass that provides interest in the garden all season long. Blue-green foliage emerges in spring fading to a tawny color in fall.
In summer, clouds of the purple inflorescene top the plant creating a hazy effect. E. spectabilis tolerates drought and dry conditions. A host plant for the caterpillars of the Zabulon skipper, Poanes zabulon.
| Botanical Name | Eragrostis spectabilis |
| Common Name | purple lovegrass |
| Family | Celastraceae |
| USDA Zone | 3 thru 7 |
| Light Requirement | Full Sun to Part Shade |
| Season(s) of interest | summer, fall, winter |
| Height and Spread | 1-2ft x 1-2ft (30-60cm x 30-60cm) |
| Flower Color | Red, Pink |
| Attracts Wildlife | Provides Food for Birds, Hosts Caterpillars of Butterflies/Moths, Rarely Browsed by Mammalian Herbivores |
| Additional Information | Native to Chicago Region. |
| Location in Lurie Garden | West Meadow, East Meadow, Salvia River, Northeast Light Plate, Southeast Light Plate |
Average Flowering Time
