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Sporobolus heterolepis

Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed)

Prairie Dropseed

This native bunchgrass has narrow leaves and loose arching habit. The fragrant flowers and seed heads appear in late summer giving the entire plant a soft airy appearance. A beautiful golden-orange fall color is developed. Photos courtesy Bluebird Nursery and Spring Valley Nursery.

Interesting Notes
Prairie Dropseed is one of the most popular native grasses because of its soft texture and attractive fall color. Native Americans made flour from the seeds.

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Growing Tips
This grass grows best in dry to medium soil in full sun. It may need to be divided every 3-6 years or before the center begins to die. Cut back in late winter early spring before new growth begins.


Height
18-24 Inches

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Spread
12-18 Inches

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USDA Hardiness Zone
3

Collections & Awards
Great Plants for the Great Plains 2003
Available at FloraKansas:
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2.5 $3.20 $3.55
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Characteristics & Attributes

Exposure
Sun Tolerant
Soil Moisture Needs
Moderate
Dry
Soil Type
Amended
Clay
Attributes
Cut Flower / or Foliage
Drought Tolerant
Nature Attraction
Songbirds
Season of Interest
Late Summer
Fall
Summer
Flower Form
Spires
Design Use
Edging
Specimen Plant
Ground Cover
Massing

Native Range / Habitat

Tallgrass Prairie
Rocky Prairie
Open Wooded Slopes

Comments

Prairie Dropseed is a common species of mesic prairies, but can be found on drier prairies throughout the tallgrass region.

© 2010 Dyck Arboretum Produced by Clarity Connect, Inc.