Sporobolus heterolepis
prairie dropseed
Sporobolus heterolepis is a graceful, slow-growing grass that forms elegant mounds of mid-green foliage that transforms from bright green to stunning yellows and oranges as autumn approaches.
As summer fades, the plant is adorned with airy plumes of pinkish-brown flowers that mature into silvery seed heads. These seed heads often persist into winter, adding interest to the garden.
This slow-growing, long-lived grass brings sophisticated drama to contemporary gardens and meadow plantings alike, its drought-resistant nature and year-round structural presence making it invaluable for sunny, open sites in any well-drained soil.
As summer fades, the plant is adorned with airy plumes of pinkish-brown flowers that mature into silvery seed heads. These seed heads often persist into winter, adding interest to the garden.
This slow-growing, long-lived grass brings sophisticated drama to contemporary gardens and meadow plantings alike, its drought-resistant nature and year-round structural presence making it invaluable for sunny, open sites in any well-drained soil.
How to care for Sporobolus heterolepis:
Plant in full sun and well-drained soil, as this prairie native resents waterlogged conditions, spacing clumps 45-60cm (18-24in) apart to allow for their fountain-like habit. While slow to establish, patience rewards the gardener as this grass develops deep roots that ensure excellent drought tolerance.
Avoid overfeeding or overly rich soils, which can lead to floppy growth - lean conditions produce the most robust plants. Leave seedheads standing through winter for structural interest and wildlife value, then cut back to 10cm (4in) above ground level in early spring before new growth emerges.
Avoid overfeeding or overly rich soils, which can lead to floppy growth - lean conditions produce the most robust plants. Leave seedheads standing through winter for structural interest and wildlife value, then cut back to 10cm (4in) above ground level in early spring before new growth emerges.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.9m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Slow growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
9cm pot
£9.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
3 × 9cm pots
£24.99
£8.33 each
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
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