Indiangrass (Sorghastrum)

Sorghastrum nutans (Indiangrass)

Overview

Uses: Native warm-season ornamental grass for meadows, prairie-style borders, slopes, and naturalized plantings; excellent for erosion control and habitat gardens.

Benefits: Copper-gold plumes in late summer to fall, brilliant amber-bronze winter color, outstanding drought and heat tolerance, low maintenance, clump-forming (non-invasive), supports wildlife and beneficial insects, and typically deer resistant.

USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 – 9

Sun: Full Sun (at least 6 hours daily)

Life Cycle: Perennial warm-season bunchgrass

Mature Height: 4' – 7' (taller in rich soils)

Mature Width: 2' – 3' clump

Bloom Season: Late Summer to Fall (showy bronze-gold panicles)

Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast

Summary

A quintessential prairie grass with luminous, late-season plumes and four seasons of presence.

Sorghastrum nutans (Indiangrass) rises in mid- to late summer with stately, upright blades that transition to copper and amber as the season matures. In late summer and fall, arching, bronze-gold panicles shimmer above the foliage, catching evening light and bringing graphic movement to borders and meadows alike. Come winter, its tawny stems stand tall, offering architecture, color, and valuable habitat when most gardens are asleep.

As a warm-season native, Indiangrass wakes later in spring, then surges as temperatures climb—thriving where many cool-season grasses fade. It’s a workhorse on hot, dry sites, yet elegant enough for designed landscapes: pair with echinacea, rudbeckia, asters, monarda, and prairie coneflowers for a pollinator-rich tapestry that spans from midsummer to frost. The clump-forming habit keeps it well-mannered, while the seedheads feed birds and the dense crowns shelter overwintering beneficials.

Low input by nature, it asks for sun, drainage, and space. In return, you get a resilient anchor plant that brings height, texture, and seasonal drama—whether you’re naturalizing an acre or elevating a city border with native flair.

Care

Indiangrass Care

Plant in full sun with reasonably well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system; once established, Indiangrass is drought- and heat-tolerant and prefers leaner soils. Overly rich soil or frequent fertilizing can encourage flopping.

Leave stems standing for winter structure and wildlife value. In late winter to very early spring, cut clumps back to 3–6" before new growth emerges. Divide every 3–5 years if vigor declines or to control size.

Feeding is generally unnecessary in average garden soils. If a light boost is desired, apply a spring slow release fertilizer sparingly to maintain the plant’s sturdy, upright form.

Size

Size of Indiangrass for Sale Online

Your plant ships in a greenhouse-grade grow pot, appropriately sized for its container and current growth stage. For specific pot sizes or large project needs, contact us.

Size of Indiangrass When Mature

Expect clumps about 2' – 3' wide with flowering height typically 4' – 7' (taller in richer soils or with ample moisture).

Additional Information

What is the botanical name of Indiangrass?

Its botanical name is Sorghastrum nutans.

Is Indiangrass deer resistant?

Yes—Indiangrass is typically deer resistant once established.

Does Indiangrass spread or reseed?

Indiangrass is a clump-forming bunchgrass (non-invasive). It may self-seed modestly in open soil; deadhead if volunteers are not desired in highly managed beds.

When should Indiangrass be cut back?

Cut back in late winter or very early spring before new shoots emerge; leaving stems over winter provides structure and wildlife habitat.