Sporobolus
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At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of perennial grasses (known as Dropseed) needs full sun and little to moderate water to perform well. These are graceful-looking grasses that are deep-rooted and drought tolerant, making them great choices for water-wise gardens. Use Dropseed in meadow or cottage gardens, in rock gardens, or by swimming pools. Flower heads are plumelike and appear in summer and autumn. After flowers fade, seeds drop to the ground and will resow, hence the common name Dropseed.
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sporobolus Species and Varietals
The best growing zones for Sporobolus vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Sporobolus airoides (Alkali Sacaton) This species does well in zones 1-24 and is native to South Dakota and Missouri, west to Washington and south to Southern California. It reaches 3 feet tall and wide, with grey-green leaves that turn yellow in fall and beige in wintertime. Flower plumes are pink-tinted, fading to straw. |
Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) Best in zones 1-10 and 14-17, this species is native to the Midwest, High Plains and other areas of the eastern United States. It has emerald green hairlike foliage that forms a mass 15 inches tall and 1.5 feet wide. Foliage turns gold-orange in fall and light bronze in winter. Flowers are held above foliage, are pink to light brown and smell a little like buttered popcorn. Seeds produced by this species are highly nutritious, and can be ground into flour. Best in dry soil. |
Sporobolus wrightii (Giant Sacaton) Best in zones 3b, 7-16, and 18-24, this species is native to sandy areas and hillsides in southwestern areas of both Canada and the United States. It has arching, blue-green leaves 3-4 feet tall and just as wide. Golden yellow seed heads follow blooms and are great when used in dried arrangements. Evergreen for the most part, unless the climate is really cold. Drought tolerant but looks best with at least occasional waterings. |
Caring for Festuca
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 611, Sporobolus
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