U.S. State Grasses: Official Botanical Symbols Across America
Across the United States, many states have designated an official grass to represent their unique landscapes, agricultural heritage, and natural biodiversity. These botanical symbols often highlight the native flora that defines a region's ecology, from the sweeping prairies of the Midwest to the arid basins of the West.
While most designations focus on wild grasses, some states have chosen grains—which are technically grasses—to honor their farming traditions. These selections are formalized through state legislation or official proclamations, creating a living map of the country's botanical diversity.
Key Facts
- Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) serves as the official grass for both Illinois and Missouri.
- Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is the designated grass for Kansas and Nebraska.
- Western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii) is shared by North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
- Blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) represents both Colorado and New Mexico.
- Indian ricegrass (Oryzopsis hymenoides) is the official grass for Nevada and Utah.
- Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) is recognized by Oklahoma and South Carolina.
Regional Botanical Diversity
The selection of state grasses often reflects the dominant environment of the state. For instance, the Western United States frequently utilizes drought-resistant species. California's Purple needlegrass (Nassella pulchra), adopted in 2004, is a prime example of the region's specific botanical identity.
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In the Great Plains and Midwest, the focus shifts toward the towering species of the prairie. The Big bluestem is a cornerstone of these ecosystems, recognized for its height and resilience. Similarly, the Little bluestem is celebrated in the central plains for its distinct color and ecological importance.
State Grains as Grasses
Some states distinguish between a general state grass and a state grain. Minnesota recognizes Wild rice (Zizania aquatica) as its state grain, while Wisconsin honors Corn (Zea mays) in the same capacity. Both are members of the Poaceae family, the scientific family encompassing all grasses.
Official State Grasses Reference Table
| State | State Grass | Scientific Name | Year Adopted |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | Purple needlegrass | Nassella pulchra | 2004 |
| Colorado | Blue grama | Bouteloua gracilis | 1987 |
| Illinois | Big bluestem (state prairie grass) | Andropogon gerardii | 1989 |
| Kansas | Little bluestem | Schizachyrium scoparium | 2010 |
| Minnesota | Wild rice (state grain) | Zizania aquatica | 1977 |
| Missouri | Big bluestem | Andropogon gerardii | 2007 |
| Montana | Bluebunch wheatgrass | Agropyron spicatum | 1973 |
| Nebraska | Little bluestem | Schizachyrium scoparium | 1969 |
| Nevada | Indian ricegrass | Oryzopsis hymenoides | 1977 |
| New Mexico | Blue grama | Bouteloua gracilis | Not Listed |
| North Dakota | Western wheatgrass | Pascopyrum smithii | Not Listed |
| Oklahoma | Indian grass | Sorghastrum nutans | 1972 |
| South Carolina | Indian grass | Sorghastrum nutans | 2001 |
| South Dakota | Western wheatgrass | Agropyron smithii | 1970 |
| Texas | Sideoats grama | Bouteloua curtipendula | 1971 |
| Utah | Indian ricegrass | Oryzopsis hymenoides | 1990 |
| Washington | Bluebunch wheatgrass | Agropyron spicatum | 1989 |
| Wisconsin | Corn (state grain) | Zea mays | 1989 |
| Wyoming | Western wheatgrass | Agropyron smithii | 2007 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states share the same official grass?
Several states share botanical symbols. For example, Illinois and Missouri both recognize Big bluestem, while Kansas and Nebraska both recognize Little bluestem. Western wheatgrass is shared by North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
Are corn and wild rice considered grasses?
Yes. Both corn (Zea mays) and wild rice (Zizania aquatica) are members of the grass family. Wisconsin and Minnesota recognize them specifically as state grains.
What is the scientific name for the state grass of California?
The scientific name for California's Purple needlegrass is Nassella pulchra.
Which state adopted its official grass most recently among those listed?
Based on the available data, Kansas adopted the Little bluestem most recently in 2010.
What grass is common to both Oklahoma and South Carolina?
Both Oklahoma and South Carolina have designated Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) as their official state grass.