Sporobolus heterolepis

Prairie dropseed, is a native perennial clump-forming, warm-season, ornamental grass that forms dense tufts of sprawling leaves up to 2 feet high and 3 feet across. It is a prairie grass typically found in glades, open ground and along railroads from Canada to the United States. Tiny rounded mature seeds drop to the ground from their hulls in autumn giving rise to the descriptive common name.

Prairie dropseed grows in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils and has a reputation for being slow to establish itself in a site as well as slow growing. It prefers full sun and dry, rocky soil, but tolerates a wide range of soils, including heavy clays, as well as deer, drought, and other challenges.

The flowers arch high above the leaves and provide movement as they sway in the wind dispersing their fragrance said to be reminiscent of buttered popcorn or hot wax.  It displays a glossy green fine summer color that turns deep orange in late fall and then fades to light copper. Snow does not flatten the plant, so it is visible even in winter.  Prune it back in spring to shape.  The root system is fibrous and short-rhizomatous.  It can be grown from seed but does not freely self-seed in the garden. Because the seeds are difficult to germinate, it is easier to propagate this grass by dividing the dense tufts of leaves. Once it becomes established at a suitable site, Prairie dropseed is long-lived.

This plant is listed by the Department of Agriculture as endangered in seven eastern states, including North Carolina.  Use in the upper tier of a rain garden, mass planted in a meadow, as an accent in a rock garden, or as a lawn alternative.  It works well to prevent erioson or can be used in the front of a border to line a walkway.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: No serious problems.