Plants in genus sporobolus
Sporobolus airoides
Sporobolus airoides, commonly known as alkali sacaton, is a perennial bunchgrass native to western North America. It thrives in a variety of habitats, particularly in alkali soils, and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant features long, spreading inflorescences with yellow spikelets that have purplish bases. Known for its drought and salt tolerance, it is often used in habitat restoration projects, especially in arid regions like the Mojave Desert. Its grey-green foliage forms a dense clump, and it blooms from midsummer to early fall with golden bronze flower panicles. This grass is valuable for its ability to produce abundant seeds and its adaptability to extreme conditions, making it a resilient choice for challenging environments.
Sporobolus wrightii
Sporobolus wrightii is a perennial bunchgrass native to the United States, known for its tall stems and long leaves. It grows in plains, desert grasslands, and wetlands, providing erosion control and forage for wildlife. The plant is drought-tolerant and forms a clump of grey-green foliage with golden-bronze flower panicles.
Sporobolus heterolepis
Sporobolus heterolepis, a native perennial bunchgrass of central North America, forms a mound of fine-textured leaves that reach 1 to 2 feet high. Its flowering stems can grow up to 3 feet tall, producing airy panicles from late July to mid-September. The foliage is green in summer and turns golden in fall, adding seasonal interest. This resilient grass grows in both moist and dry conditions and serves as a larval host for the Poweshiek skipper. It is often used in ornamental plantings, green roofs, and prairie restoration projects.
Sporobolus heterolepis 'Dwarf'
Sporobolus heterolepis 'Dwarf' is a compact ornamental prairie grass with rich fall colors of amber-like browns and reds. It produces creamy orange flowers with a coriander scent and is sterile, preventing self-seeding. This low-maintenance plant adapts well to dry and rocky regions and prefers full sun.
Sporobolus bakeri
Sporobolus bakeri, also known as Sand Cordgrass, is a dramatic ornamental grass with narrow foliage and reddish plumes. It forms a clumping habit and is adaptable to both regular soil and swampy conditions. This grass is native to the United States and is suitable for sunny locations, adding texture and movement to garden landscapes.
Sporobolus michauxianus
Sporobolus michauxianus is a native prairie grass with arching green foliage and airy plumes. It grows 4-6 feet tall and turns brilliant gold in fall. This plant stabilizes soil along streams and supports pollinators, serving as a larval host for Skipper Butterflies and Tussock Moths.