Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans)

from $4.00

The genus name comes from Greek words for “sorghum-like,” and nutans means “nodding,” referring to the way the flower clusters bend.

Produces graceful golden-bronze flower panicles in late summer, which shimmer in the wind.

Blue-green foliage turns brilliant orange and bronze in fall, providing great seasonal interest.

Seeds feed birds such as sparrows and juncos in winter.

Provides cover for wildlife and excellent nesting habitat for grassland birds.

Serves as a host plant for several skipper butterfly species, including the Dusted Skipper and Cobweb Skipper.

Historically used by indigenous people for ceremonial and practical purposes.

Size:

The genus name comes from Greek words for “sorghum-like,” and nutans means “nodding,” referring to the way the flower clusters bend.

Produces graceful golden-bronze flower panicles in late summer, which shimmer in the wind.

Blue-green foliage turns brilliant orange and bronze in fall, providing great seasonal interest.

Seeds feed birds such as sparrows and juncos in winter.

Provides cover for wildlife and excellent nesting habitat for grassland birds.

Serves as a host plant for several skipper butterfly species, including the Dusted Skipper and Cobweb Skipper.

Historically used by indigenous people for ceremonial and practical purposes.

Bloom: late summer to early fall

Habitats: areas along railroads (particularly where prairie remnants occur); barrens with scrubby vegetation; black soil prairies; cemetery prairies; fallow fields; grassy fens; gravel prairies; hill prairies; roadsides; sand prairies; typical savannas and sandy savannas

Lifespan: perennial

Moisture: moist to dry-mesic

Plant type (height): grass (3 to 7 feet)

Requirements: full sun to partial sun

Soil: clay-loam; gravel; loam; sand