A tough grass that will reseed and establish itself on sites damaged by fire or overgrazing.

It is a fine addition to any xeriscape and will grow quite large if given sufficient space.
The open, spangled appearance when in flower or fruit is very attractive, especially in backlight.

In the past, the grass was used as a food staple by the Native Americans,
especially when the maize crop failed. Seed of the ricegrass was
gathered and ground into meal or flour and made into bread.