Sand Dropseed

(Sporobolus cryptandrus)

Sand Dropseed (Sporobolus cryptandrus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Sporobolus cryptandrus, commonly known as Sand Dropseed, is a deciduous perennial grass native to a variety of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, and desert scrub across North America. It typically forms a tuft of stems up to a meter long, with an erect to decumbent growth habit. The stem bases are thickened but not woody. Notably, the inflorescence starts dense and narrow, then spreads and becomes diffuse as it matures, with some branches extending outward. The top leaf often sheaths the base of the inflorescence. This grass is a prolific seed producer, with a single inflorescence capable of bearing up to 10,000 seeds, which are an important food source for small birds and mammals.

Sand Dropseed is valued for its adaptability to harsh conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects. It is also used for erosion control due to its bunching habit. In gardens, it can be used as an ornamental grass, providing texture and movement. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating low water conditions once established. While it is not known for significant disease problems, overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats including prairies, open woodlands, and desert scrub across North America

Other Names

Common Names: Prairie Grass, Verstecktblütiger Fallsame, Sporobole À Fleurs Cacnées, Sporobole À Fleurs Cachées

Scientific Names: , Sporobolus cryptandrus, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. fuscicola, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. occidentalis, Sporobolus subinclusus, Agrostis cryptandra, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. vaginatus, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. cryptandrus, Sporobolus cryptandrus subsp. fuscicolor, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. involutus

GBIF Accepted Name: Sporobolus cryptandrus (Torr.) A.Gray