Family: Poaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Eragrostis elliottii, commonly known as blue lovegrass, is a perennial grass native to the southeastern United States. It grows in clumps and produces fine, bluish-green foliage with delicate, airy flower panicles that give it a soft, ornamental appearance. This species has been used for soil stabilization, erosion control, and as an ornamental grass in landscaping due to its attractive texture and adaptability to a range of soil conditions. Its ability to establish quickly and tolerate drought makes it appealing for low-maintenance planting projects.

Risks & Threats
Although Eragrostis elliottii is not currently naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses traits that are cause for concern. It can spread readily under favorable conditions, potentially outcompeting native grasses and disrupting native plant communities. Its growth habits could alter soil composition and ecosystem dynamics, posing a threat to fragile tropical island ecosystems. For these reasons, it is recommended to avoid planting blue lovegrass in Hawaii and instead choose low-risk or native alternatives that provide similar soil stabilization or ornamental benefits without threatening local biodiversity.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized beyond native range (Texas, Missouri)
  
• Congeneric weed – other Eragrostis species are serious weeds
  
• Tolerates wide range of soils (sand, clay, serpentine)
  
• Vegetative reproduction – spreads via rhizomes, easy to divide
  
• Intentional dispersal – widely sold as ornamental
  
• Wind-dispersed seeds – fluffy inflorescences aid spread
  
• Prolific seed production (~6,400 seeds/gram)
  
• Fire-adapted – resprouts after fire

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of weediness – not reported as agricultural or environmental weed
  
• No physical defenses – lacks spines, thorns, burrs
  
• Non-toxic – no evidence of toxicity to animals or humans
  
• Not a pest host – no serious insect or disease issues
  
• Shade intolerant – requires full sun
  
• Clumping growth habit – not climbing or smothering
  
• Wind-pollinated – no specialist pollinators needed
  
• Not a produce contaminant – not associated with agriculture
  
• No external seed attachment – not adapted for animal dispersal