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Sporobolus heterolepis
prairie dropseed
Sporobolus heterolepis is a graceful, slow-growing grass that forms elegant mounds of mid-green foliage that transforms from bright green to...
9cm pot
available to order from summer
3 × 9cm pots
available to order from summer
1
Delivery options
Plant description
Sporobolus heterolepis is a graceful, slow-growing grass that forms elegant mounds of mid-green foliage that transforms from bright green to stunning yellows and oranges as autumn approaches.
As summer fades, the plant is adorned with airy plumes of pinkish-brown flowers that mature into silvery seed heads. These seed heads often persist into winter, adding interest to the garden.
This slow-growing, long-lived grass brings sophisticated drama to contemporary gardens and meadow plantings alike, its drought-resistant nature and year-round structural presence making it invaluable for sunny, open sites in any well-drained soil.
As summer fades, the plant is adorned with airy plumes of pinkish-brown flowers that mature into silvery seed heads. These seed heads often persist into winter, adding interest to the garden.
This slow-growing, long-lived grass brings sophisticated drama to contemporary gardens and meadow plantings alike, its drought-resistant nature and year-round structural presence making it invaluable for sunny, open sites in any well-drained soil.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Sporobolus heterolepis:
Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, as this prairie native resents waterlogged conditions, spacing clumps 45-60cm (18-24in) apart to allow for their fountain-like habit. While slow to establish, patience rewards the gardener as this grass develops deep roots that ensure excellent drought tolerance.
Avoid overfeeding or overly rich soils, which can lead to floppy growth - lean conditions produce the most robust plants. Leave seedheads standing through winter for structural interest and wildlife value, then cut back to 10cm (4in) above ground level in early spring before new growth emerges.
Avoid overfeeding or overly rich soils, which can lead to floppy growth - lean conditions produce the most robust plants. Leave seedheads standing through winter for structural interest and wildlife value, then cut back to 10cm (4in) above ground level in early spring before new growth emerges.
Please note:
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
