Indiangrass

Indiangrass

Sorghastrum nutans, commonly known as Indiangrass, is a native warm-season perennial grass celebrated for its golden autumn plumes and striking upright growth. Its fine-textured, blue-green foliage forms dense clumps that transition to warm shades of yellow and bronze in fall, creating a vibrant seasonal display. The airy, golden seed heads rise elegantly above the foliage in late summer to fall, offering a dramatic vertical accent in the landscape.

This ornamental grass is both beautiful and practical, serving as a habitat and food source for birds, pollinators, and beneficial wildlife. Its strong stems and graceful flowers make it an excellent choice for naturalized plantings, prairie gardens, or as a focal point in perennial borders. The plant’s adaptability and tolerance to poor soils, drought, and heat ensure it thrives with minimal maintenance once established.

Sorghastrum nutans is highly valued for its ecological benefits and visual appeal throughout the year. Its golden fall color, wildlife attraction, and durable nature make it a reliable addition to native gardens, meadows, or sustainable landscapes that prioritize beauty and biodiversity.

Care Instructions:

Planting: Choose a site with well-drained soil; it tolerates a range of soils, including clay and sandy conditions.
Sun Exposure: Requires full sun for best performance and vibrant plume color.
Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots; once established, it is drought-tolerant.
Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization is needed; too much fertilizer may reduce its upright form.
Pruning: Cut back clumps to 3–4 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Spacing: Space plants 24–36 inches apart to allow mature clump development.