Giant Dropseed
(Sporobolus giganteus)
Giant Dropseed (Sporobolus giganteus)
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Patrick Alexander
CC0
Image By:
Patrick Alexander
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Patrick Alexander | License Type: CC0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Josve05a | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |

















Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for Landover, Maryland
This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
• Precipitation | 6" - 33" | 43" | Aquatic | Aquatic |
• High Temp. | 79°F - 104°F | 89°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
• Low Temp. | 12°F - 40°F | 25°F | Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant | Excellent |
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.
Summary
Sporobolus giganteus, commonly known as Giant Dropseed, is a perennial grass native to the tallgrass prairies, open woodlands, and scrublands of the South Western United States and Northern Mexico. This species typically reaches a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters), forming dense clumps with fine-textured, arching foliage. The inflorescence is a large, open, airy panicle that appears in late summer to fall, adding a delicate texture to the landscape. The flowers are not particularly showy, but the seed heads are attractive and persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for wildlife.
Giant Dropseed is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings, restoration projects, and erosion control. It is also used in xeriscaping and as an accent plant in dry gardens. While it has historical significance as a food source, its use in modern cultivation is primarily ornamental. This grass prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. It requires minimal maintenance once established, making it a low-care option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Giant Dropseed is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic plantings, restoration projects, and erosion control. It is also used in xeriscaping and as an accent plant in dry gardens. While it has historical significance as a food source, its use in modern cultivation is primarily ornamental. This grass prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. It requires minimal maintenance once established, making it a low-care option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 4-6 feet
- Width: 6-8 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
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., Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant
Natural Habitat
native to the tallgrass prairies, open woodlands, and scrublands of the South Western United States and Northern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: Sporobolus giganteus, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. robustus, Sporobolus cryptandrus var. giganteus
GBIF Accepted Name: Sporobolus giganteus Nash