PrairieDropseed

Prairie Dropseed (sporobolus heterolepis)


Prairie Dropseed is mainly found in the Mid-West United States. They take about five years to mature and are usually 1-4 feet tall. They are also drought resistant, and usually prefer moist to dry soil. Prairie Dropseed can usually be identified easily and are favored by landscapers due to the fact that they grow in bunches. The leaves range from a dark green to a golden color. The grass blooms with rusty-tan colored flowers from late July to mid-September.The base of the plant is no larger then 1/8 of an inch wide and the seedhead is said to smell of popcorn, cilantro, or sunflower seeds. The seeds of this plant have been known to be used by Native Americans. They would grind them up and use them as a type of flour.

Other Information
The seed heads of the Prairie Dropseed form in August. The clumps then turn yellow or deep orange in fall. They can provide food and cover for wildlife. It can attract songbirds, but deer do not like this plant. Small animals can eat this as well as birds. Also, the size, leaves and all, usually measures to around 24-39 inches wide and 18-24 inches tall. Favored soil for this plant is moderate to lighty moist.