Northern dropseed, also called prairie dropseed, is more commonly associated with the Midwestern states today, but this highly ornamental grass is actually native to the Northeast. Prairie dropseed is a great addition to gardens that need a compact and well-behaved low-mounding grass. With a graceful habit, prairie dropseed rarely grows above 1-2’, followed by taller airy flower stalks in late summer. Holds a nice green color all summer that fades to a lovely yellow in fall. Seeds have a distinctive coriander scent. Although long-lived and resilient, this species is slow to size up. We recommend starting with larger plants or having patience!
Northern dropseed, also called prairie dropseed, is more commonly associated with the Midwestern states today, but this highly ornamental grass is actually native to the Northeast. Prairie dropseed is a great addition to gardens that need a compact and well-behaved low-mounding grass. With a graceful habit, prairie dropseed rarely grows above 1-2’, followed by taller airy flower stalks in late summer. Holds a nice green color all summer that fades to a lovely yellow in fall. Seeds have a distinctive coriander scent. Although long-lived and resilient, this species is slow to size up. We recommend starting with larger plants or having patience!
Height: 2’
Bloom Time: late summer
Light: full sun, part shade
Soil: medium-wet, average, medium dry, dry
Establishment: easy, slow to size up
Deer Resistance: high
Pollinator Support: low
Other: songbirds use seeds as fall/winter food source
Native Range: Northeast (now rare), Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Great Plains
Seed propagated: yes
