Sporobolus heterolepis

Prairie Dropseed

Tips for Homeowners:

Cut grass back to the ground in the spring or perform a controlled burn if naturalized.

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Whether in a prairie or in a more refined space this grass is considered to be one of the most beautiful of all grasses. The texture and the airy nature of the flowers are stunning and in the fall it has pumpkin orange color.

  • Native, clumping grass
  • Fragrant tan flowers, orange fall color
  • Tolerates tough soils, drought tolerant

Plant in a wide open area of the sunny landscape for naturalizing.

Height: 2-3 ft
Spread: 2-3 ft
Zone: 3-9
Color: Tan

Interesting Notes about Prairie Dropseed:

This is a great naturalizing grass that can be grown from seed, and though it does self-seed it does not do so freely. In fact, it is very slow to establish. This grass does tolerate poor soils as long as they are well-drained. It is foraged by deer and livestock, plus the seeds are enjoyed by birds and butterflies.


Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes:

  • Drought Tolerant
  • Low Maintenance
  • Native
  • Mass Planting
  • Winter Interest
  • Summer Bloomer
  • Ornamental Grass
  • Naturalizing
  • Fragrant
  • Border or Bed
  • Cold Tolerant
  • Heat Tolerant

Foliage Color:

  • Orange
  • Green

Exposure:

  • Full Sun

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Attracts Songbirds

Habit:

  • Mounding

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Summer
  • Fall

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Winter
  • Fall

Soil Moisture:

  • Average Water