Tufted hairgrass forms dense tufts of delicate, hair-like foliage and grows in moist, well-drained soils in various habitats. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing sand dunes and preventing erosion along coastlines. 

Tufted hairgrass is capable of reaching up to 4 ft tall. Flower stalks grow in dense clusters. Distinguished from American Dunegrass by long, feathery anthers and thin, shorter leaves.