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16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Sporobolus heterolepis

Prairie Dropseed

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Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed)

This 2005 Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit winner forms a dense, graceful clump with thin, emerald green leaves that turn yellow or deep orange in fall. In August, seed heads form which give off a distinct aroma reminiscent of popped corn. This grass provides cover and food for wildlife. It is an excellent selection for any landscape.

Additional Information:


Height
18-24 Inches

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Spread
24-30 Inches

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USDA Hardiness Zone 3-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:
Looks great toward the front of the border or weaving in and out of taller flowering plants. Use in native plant gardens, naturalized areas, prairies and meadows. Excellent in massed plantings. Provides food and cover for wildlife.

Good Companions
Aromatic Aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium), Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya), Rough Blazing Star (Liatris aspera), Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis), Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea pallida), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Yellow Coneflower (Echinacea paradoxa), Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa)

Characteristics & Attributes

Critter Resistance

Deer Resistant

Hydrologic Designation

FACU-

Nature Attracting

Songbird

Root

Fibrous

Season of Interest

Late (July-frost)
Mid (May-June)

Soil Moisture

Average
Moderate

Special Uses

Fragrant

Sun Exposure

Full Sun

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Food/Birds
Cover
Food/Small Animals