Loose Silkybent: A Delicate Non-Native Grass Worth Knowing
If you’ve ever walked through a disturbed field or vacant lot and noticed delicate, wispy grass seed heads dancing in the breeze, you might have encountered loose silkybent (Apera spicaventi). This annual grass, also known by its synonym Agrostis spica-venti, is one of those plants that quietly makes itself at home in unexpected places.
What Is Loose Silkybent?
Loose silkybent is an annual grass that belongs to the graminoid family—essentially, it’s a true grass with all the characteristics you’d expect. Originally from Europe and western Asia, this non-native species has established itself across much of North America, reproducing naturally and persisting in the wild without human intervention.
Where You’ll Find It
This adaptable grass has made itself at home across a surprisingly wide range of locations. You can find loose silkybent growing in states from coast to coast, including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. It’s also established in Ontario, Canada.
Should You Plant Loose Silkybent?
Here’s where things get interesting. While loose silkybent isn’t necessarily a bad plant, it’s not typically something you’d choose for a carefully designed garden. Here’s why:
The Case Against
- It’s not native to North America, so it doesn’t support local ecosystems as effectively as native grasses
- Limited aesthetic appeal compared to purposefully selected ornamental grasses
- Provides minimal benefits to pollinators since it’s wind-pollinated
- Can self-seed aggressively in disturbed soils
The Case For (Sort Of)
- Extremely low-maintenance once established
- Adaptable to various growing conditions
- Can help stabilize disturbed soils
- Creates a delicate, naturalized texture in informal settings
Better Native Alternatives
Before you consider loose silkybent, why not explore some beautiful native grasses that will provide similar texture while supporting local wildlife? Consider these alternatives based on your region:
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – gorgeous fall color
- Buffalo grass (Poaceae family natives) – drought-tolerant options
- Native fescues specific to your region
- Sedges (Carex species) – incredible diversity and wildlife value
If You’re Growing It Anyway
Maybe you’ve inherited a property where loose silkybent has already established itself, or you’re specifically looking for something to stabilize a disturbed area. Here’s what you need to know:
Growing Conditions
Loose silkybent is remarkably unfussy about its growing conditions. It thrives in full sun and adapts to various soil types, though it particularly loves disturbed soils. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season and relies on self-seeding to return each year.
Care Tips
- Minimal care required—this grass essentially takes care of itself
- Will self-seed readily, so be prepared for it to spread
- No need for fertilization or supplemental watering once established
- Can be mowed or cut back if you want to control seed production
The Bottom Line
Loose silkybent is one of those plants that exists in the gardening gray area—not inherently harmful, but not particularly beneficial either. While it won’t cause ecological disaster in your garden, choosing native alternatives will better support local wildlife and create more meaningful connections to your regional ecosystem.
If you’re designing a new garden or looking to add ornamental grasses, invest in native species that will provide beauty while supporting the birds, butterflies, and other wildlife that make our gardens truly come alive. Your local extension office or native plant society can help you identify the best native grass alternatives for your specific region and growing conditions.
