This a widespread weedy annual in most temperate regions of North America. It is reported to hybridize with gattingeri, especially in southeastern states (FNA 25). Depauperate colls. from dry rocky sites should be rechecked for possible reassignment. There has been much ornamental use of capillare but often marketed under "Panicum elegans"--an erroneous application of that name; see for example the cultivar "frosted explosion" sold by Johnny's Selected Seeds (at www.johnnyseeds.com in Sep 2025).