Prairie Dropseed Grass

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-18 Inches

Mature Spread

6-18 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Prairie Dropseed Grass or Sporobolus heterolepis is a native flowering grass commonly grown for its fine texture and gently arching foliage. The leaves are very thin but also very dense, so this plant has an imposing presence. The deep green foliage transitions to shades of gold and orange by the fall. Pink and brown panicled flowers give way to tiny seeds that drop, as the name implies, late in the season.

As a native plant, Prairie Dropseed Grass requires very little attention once acclimated. The tall, thin blades of grass billow in the wind and invoke a prairie-like setting. Plant this clump-forming stunner in beds, mass plantings, or borders, or use it as erosion control. The fragrant blooms have a slight coriander scent, and the seed will be a draw for birds. This plant grows as a perennial in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Prairie Dropseed Grass Care

Plant Prairie Dropseed Grass in full sun. Soil should be rich and well-drained. This stunner requires consistent water for the first year but is drought-tolerant once established. 

As a native plant, this grass does not need to be fertilized, but a dose of balanced plant food in the spring will get it off to a strong start. Dethatch or remove old, dead foliage each year to encourage new growth.

Prairie Dropseed Grass Spacing

Prairie Dropseed Grass will grow 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 10 to 12 inches wide. Plants can be spaced 8 to 12 inches apart to create a full and continuous look.