Plant Profile: Sorghastrum nutans

Sorghastrum nutans, commonly known as Indiangrass, is a robust perennial bunchgrass that typically reaches heights of 5 to 7 feet. While its growth initiates in the spring, the majority occurs from June to August, and the grass retains its green color until the first frost. In late summer and fall, striking yellow flower panicles rise above the foliage. This species is indigenous to the Southeastern United States, thriving in rocky and clay soils, and showcases a vibrant yellow-orange hue in the fall. Indiangrass was once a key component of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem that spanned much of the Midwest. It offers excellent year-round cover for various birds and mammals, with its seeds being a food source for songbirds, and it demonstrates strong resistance to deer grazing.

Indiangrass flourishes in average, well-drained soils that are dry to medium in moisture and requires full sunlight. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including heavy clay, and can thrive in poor, dry, and infertile conditions. However, it struggles in full shade and may become leggy or flop in overly moist, nutrient-rich soils. Under optimal conditions, it can self-seed and naturalize, but cutting it back to the ground in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins, can promote healthier development. This resilient plant is capable of enduring drought, erosion, dry and shallow rocky soils, as well as air pollution.

Fire Risk: Indiangrass has a high flammability rating, making it unsuitable for planting within the defensible space around your home. It is advisable to choose low-flammability plants for areas closest to your residence.

Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Issues: There are no significant insect pests or diseases associated with Indiangrass; however, its high flammability should be taken into consideration.