Sporobolus heterolepis / Prairie Dropseed

Sporobolus heterolepis / Prairie Dropseed is an ornamental grass native to a large area of North America including the Hudson Valley. Sporobolus heterolepis grows 2 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, with a flower stalk that shoots up in late summer which sports pink/brown flowers. Prairie Dropseed is a tough plant, tolerating deer browsing, dry rocky soils, and even Black Walnut trees which can produce Juglone, an organic compound that attacks nearby plants. Plant Sporobolus heterolepis in full sun in dry to medium, well-drained soils. Slow growing, but once established, Prairie Dropseed will be your friend for life. Although the common name implies otherwise, Prairie Dropseed usually does not readily spread by seed. Ornamental grasses provide wonderful bird and insect habitat to your landscape and are beautiful in the wintertime.