Sorghastrum nutans
Overview
Uses: Native meadow plantings, prairie-style borders, erosion control on slopes, habitat gardens, large naturalized landscapes.
Benefits: Copper-gold plumes in late summer to fall, warm amber winter color, strong drought and heat tolerance, clump-forming (non-invasive) habit, valuable for wildlife support, typically deer resistant.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Upright — vertical stems topped with airy panicles.
Bloom Color: Bronze to Golden
Foliage Color: Blue-Green, maturing to Amber-Bronze in fall
Mature Height: 4–7'
Mature Width: 2–3'
Bloom Season: Late Summer to Fall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
A defining prairie grass that brings height, movement, and glowing late-season color to the landscape.
Sorghastrum nutans, commonly known as Indiangrass, emerges in late spring and builds into strong, upright clumps that anchor sunny borders and meadow plantings. By late summer, airy bronze-gold panicles rise above the foliage, catching light and adding warmth to the garden just as many early bloomers fade.
As a warm-season native grass, it thrives in heat and lean soils, developing deep roots that improve resilience in dry conditions. Its winter presence provides structure and seasonal interest, while seeds and dense crowns offer shelter and food for wildlife.
Care
Sorghastrum nutans Care
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it tolerates drought and performs well in average to lean soils.
Avoid excessive fertilization, which can cause floppy growth. If needed, apply a light spring application of slow release fertilizer.
Leave foliage standing through winter for structure and habitat value. Cut back to 3–6 inches in late winter or very early spring before new growth begins.
Size
What Size is the Sorghastrum nutans for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing, well-rooted specimens. Size at shipment reflects current stage of development. Please contact us with specific sizing questions.
How Large Does Sorghastrum nutans Grow?
Mature clumps typically reach 4–7 feet tall in bloom and spread 2–3 feet wide. Height may vary depending on soil fertility and moisture.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Indiangrass is the widely recognized common name for Sorghastrum nutans.
Is Indiangrass deer resistant?
Indiangrass is typically deer resistant once established and is often included in deer-resistant perennials and grasses plantings.
Is Sorghastrum nutans a native plant?
Yes. Indiangrass is native to North America and is frequently used in restoration and habitat-focused designs. It pairs well with other species found in native plants of North America collections.
Will Indiangrass spread aggressively?
No. It is a clump-forming bunchgrass that does not spread by runners. It may self-seed lightly in open soil but remains well behaved in designed landscapes.
