Planting and Growing Indiangrass

Also known as Yellow Indian Grass, this is a member of the Poaceae family of plants. It is native to the United States. Botanically, it is known as Sorghastrum nutans or by its synonym Sorghastrum avenaceum.

Indiangrass Description

A bunching grass, the Indiangrass grows three to eight feet tall. It has blue-green grass blades that are broad. The seed head is large and like a plume with soft gold-brown colors. The green grass turns a purple or deep orange in the fall season. It is a very ornamental grass to have in the landscape.

Growing Guide

This perennial does not have a preference on lighting conditions and does well from full sun to full shade. It has a high drought tolerance. Propagate by seeds or by division. Division is difficult because of the tangled roots. Seeds need dry stratification and should be collected in the fall season.

Distribution

This native grass is found in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming. It is seen in open woods, prairies, and dry slopes.

Wildlife Attracted

Small mammals and birds love the seeds of this native grass. It also is a food source plant for the Pepper and Salt Skipper butterfly. This is a great addition for a butterfly garden.

Source: NPIN