Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) Unity Grown

Sporobolus heterolepis (Prairie Dropseed) is an ornamental perennial grass native to a variety of areas across North America, although it is now considered endangered in five states, including Maryland, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Growing from one to two feet in height, Prairie Dropseed has smooth blades which grow together in mounded, mop-like clumps; leaves act as host plant for a variety of butterflies and moths.

In late summer, the grass flowers and produces a unique fragrance which has been described as spicy, herbal, and nutty. Prairie Dropseed's flowers are fine panicles, which range from pink to beige, before turning to seed in early fall.

Seeds are dispersed by gravity or by expulsion from the plant, and during this time, the grass attracts a wide variety of birds, including sparrows, juncos, and other songbirds.