Sorghastrum nutans

yellow prairie grass

Indian grass is a wonderful native species that works very well for ornamental value in a wide range of soils, from dry and sandy to moist or clayey... it even resists black walnut. Its autumn blooms produce bright orange anthers that hang down from each flower providing winter interest, and its diffuse root system can control erosion.

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Height: 3-5 ft
Spread: 2-3 ft
Hardiness Zone: 3-9


Bloom Color: Non-Flowering

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
Soil Moisture
• Dry
• Average
Ecoregion
• (84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
• (82) Acadian Plains and Hills
• (58) Northeastern Highlands
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
• (59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
Ornamental Interest
• Fall Foliage
Attracts Wildlife
• Host Plant
• Other Pollinators/Wildlife
• Attracts Songbirds
Tolerance
• Deer/Rabbit Resistant
• Drought Tolerant
Additional Attributes
• Erosion Control/Soil Stabilization
• Low Maintenance
Landscape Use
• Naturalize
• Massing
• Meadow garden
• Rain Garden
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
• Orange to Brown Fall Foliage


North American Distribution


yellow prairie grass - Sorghastrum nutans from Native Plant Trust
yellow prairie grass - Sorghastrum nutans from Native Plant Trust
yellow prairie grass - Sorghastrum nutans from Native Plant Trust