Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis)

Prairie Dropseed is a perennial, warm-season bunchgrass admired for its fine texture and graceful form. Often called one of the most handsome of the prairie grasses, it grows 2–3 feet tall and forms dense, arching tufts of emerald-green leaves that turn golden in fall. Blooming from August through October, it produces airy seed heads with a light, sweet fragrance. Prairie Dropseed thrives in full sun and adapts to a wide range of soils, performing well in both moist and dry conditions. It’s excellent for borders, prairie restorations, and ornamental plantings where structure and movement are desired.

Height: 24–36 inches
Color: Emerald Green (turns Golden in Fall)
Hardiness Zone: 3–9 (typical range)
Bloom Period: August–October (Fall)
Sun: Full Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moderate (Adapts to Moist)
Lifespan: Perennial (Warm Season Bunchgrass)
Seeds per Pound: ~224,000 (≈14,000 seeds/oz.)
Seeding Rate: 1 oz. covers 200 sq. ft. | 11 lbs. per acre

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