Indian Steel Indiangrass

$24.99

Indian Grass Indian Steel (Sorghastrum nutans) features steel-blue foliage and golden plumes, with year-round interest. Drought-tolerant, deer resistant, and wildlife-friendly.

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Indian Steel Indiangrass

Sorghastrum nutans ‘Indian Steel’, Indian Grass ‘Indian Steel’

Indian Steel Indiangrass, is a striking ornamental grass prized for its unique steel-blue foliage and upright growth. Its narrow, arching leaves provide a cool-toned contrast in the garden, standing out beautifully among warm-colored perennials and native grasses. By late summer, tall golden-bronze flower plumes emerge, adding texture and vertical interest that lasts well into fall and winter.

This grass is a standout choice for naturalistic plantings, native gardens, or as an accent in mixed borders. Its steel-blue foliage shifts to warm tones of gold and bronze in autumn, offering multi-season appeal. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, Indian Steel is also highly valued for attracting birds and pollinators while resisting deer and other browsing animals.

Durable and adaptable, Indiangrass Indian Steel thrives in a wide range of soils, including poor and dry conditions. Its strong stems and long-lasting plumes make it equally useful in fresh or dried arrangements, while its bold color and form add depth and texture to sustainable landscapes.

Care Instructions:

Planting: Plant in well-drained soil; tolerates clay, sandy, or rocky soils.
Sun Exposure: Full sun is essential for the strongest color and best flowering.
Watering: Water regularly until established; afterward, it performs well in dry conditions and requires little supplemental water.
Fertilizing: Apply a light feeding of balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired, but avoid overfertilizing to maintain upright form.
Pruning: Cut back to 3–4 inches above ground in late winter or early spring before new shoots emerge.
Spacing: Allow 24–36 inches between plants for mature clump development.

Plant NameIndian Steel Indiangrass
Botanical / Alternative Name(s)Sorghastrum nutans ‘Indian Steel’, Indian Grass ‘Indian Steel’
Plant TypeOrnamental Grasses
NativeYes
Hardiness Zone(s)4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Season of InterestSummer, Fall, Winter
ExposureFull Sun
Plant Height3' – 6' (ft)
Plant Spread2' - 3' (ft)
Spacing24" – 36" (in)
Water NeedsLow, Average
Maintenance LevelLow
Soil TypeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil PHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil DrainageWell-Drained
Bloom ColorBronze
Foliage ColorBlue, Bronze, Green, Copper
CharacteristicsGreat Foliage, Plant of Merit, Showy
TolerancesDrought, Dry Soil, Heat, Rocky Soil, Clay Soil, Deer
AttractsBirds, Pollinators
Garden UsesBanks & Slopes, Beds & Borders, Dried Arrangements, Mass Planting, Specimen

Square Planting Pattern

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Triangular Planting Pattern

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Note: Actual plants needed may vary slightly.