Poaceae
yellow indiangrass
Sorghastrum nutans
Other Common Names
prairie indiangrass
Plant Type
Grass/Grass-like
Life Cycle
Perennial
Typical Size
5-7 ft. tall
1-2 ft. wide
Tolerant of
Drought
Inolerant of
Poorly Drained Soil
Propagation
By seed, By division
Plant Propagation Notes
Seed requires moist cold stratification or scarification.
Plant Planting Notes
Provide up to 2 ft spacing.
Plants/Diseases
No significant disease or pest issues.
Wildlife Benefits
Fruit/seeds for birds
Leaves
Leaves alternate, sheath.
Flowers
Yellow to orange on panicles.
Fruit
Caryopsis.
Toxicity
No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Light Exposure
Full Sun
Soil Moisture
Dry, Medium
Soil Drainage
Well-drained
Native in South Carolina?
Yes
Plant Native Habitat
Dry to medium woodlands and forests, prairies, barrens, and powerline rights-of-way.
Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)
Secure (G5)
Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)
Not Listed
Distribution Notes
Common throughout South Carolina.