Indian Grass

Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans)

Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans) is a robust, warm-season native ornamental grass renowned for its tall, upright habit and striking golden-yellow foliage that intensifies with copper and bronze tones in the fall. This perennial adds height, texture, and seasonal interest to prairie gardens, naturalistic landscapes, and mixed borders.

Distinctive Features

Indian Grass forms dense clumps of narrow, arching leaves that develop bright green color in summer, transitioning to warm golden and bronze hues in autumn. Its large, airy flower panicles emerge in late summer, providing soft movement and visual appeal.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soils; adapts to a variety of soil types including sandy and loamy soils
• Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�9

Ideal Uses

• Prairie Gardens: Ideal for native and naturalistic landscapes
• Mixed Borders: Adds vertical structure and seasonal color
• Accent Planting: Creates bold focal points with height and texture
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports pollinators and provides seed for birds
• Low-Maintenance Gardens: Performs well with minimal care

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water moderately during establishment; drought tolerant thereafter
• Pruning: Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth
• Fertilizing: Usually not necessary
• Mulching: Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Prefers open, sunny sites with good air circulation

Why Choose Indian Grass?

• Tall Upright Habit: Provides strong vertical structure in landscapes
• Vibrant Fall Colors: Offers warm golden and bronze tones
• Wildlife Support: Attracts pollinators and birds
• Drought Tolerance: Suitable for low-water gardens
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and maintain

Sorghastrum nutans is a majestic, low-maintenance native grass that enriches landscapes with height, color, and ecological benefits.