Grasses

Big Bluestem - Andropogon gerardii

Big Bluestem is easy to grow and adaptable to most soil conditions. At its mature size it reaches 8 feet, creating lots of visual interest and biomass above and below ground with giant fibrous roots. It needs moist soil at first, but once established is drought-tolerant. In addition to being a host for insect larvae, it can provide cover for small birds.

Moisture: Moist to dry

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Height: 6 - 8 ft

Indian Grass - Sorghastrum nutans

Sorghastrum nutans will do well in medium to dry soil, with full sun to part shade. The tall grass forms clumps with delicate golden seedheads (fall and winter interest). It adapts to many site conditions and tolerates drought well.

Little Bluestem - Schizachyrium scoparium

Little bluestem is easy to grow, forms dense clumps, and can even help hold up floppier plants. They have a great rusty fall color and provides winter interest to your landscape. It is a host for the larvae of many skipper butterflies.

Purple Lovegrass - Eragrostis spectabilis

Purple Lovegrass is a low-growing grass, unlike the bluestems, and can do well in dry to average and poor soil conditions. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, turns red in late summer, and can help with erosion control. Purple Lovegrass serves as a host for the larvae of the paradoxical grass moth, food for herbivore insects, and nesting sites for birds.

River Oats - Chasmanthium latifolium

As its name suggests, River Oats, also known as Sea Oats, need moist to average soil conditions to thrive. In the right conditions they can spread rapidly. These showy grasses can grow from 1-3 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide. These are perfect for a rain garden, can help with erosion control, and their dried heads can even be a great addition to a cut-flower bouquet.

Moisture: Medium to dry

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Height: 3-5 ft