Product Description
Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Prairie Dropseed, Ornamental Grass
This is a new seed strain of the native grass known for its hair-like foliage and mass planting appeal. 'Gone with the Wind' is shorter than the species, but still maintains many of the characteristics that made this type of grass popular. Its short, green foliage is topped by wispy, airy and aromatic tan flower panicles. The plant, as the name suggests, gently sways with the wind, creating unique movement in the garden. Foliage takes on red overtones in late fall.
This grass is very heat and drought tolerant because it is deep rooted. It is often planted en masse as a groundcover or as a specimen.
Prairie Dropseed is native to North American prairies and occurs naturally from Canada to Texas. Much of it has been destroyed by overgrazing and farming, so now it is only found in undisturbed prairies. Native Americans once used its seeds to make flour. This plant gets its name from the way the tiny mature seeds drop to the ground in the fall. Birds and other wildlife depend on this plant as a nutritious food source.
This plant tolerates a wide range of conditions including clay soil, but grows best in well-drained, dry, rocky soil and full sun. It can tolerate light shade, but in too much shade it will flop. This plant is extremely heat and drought tolerant once established. However, some summer watering may be required in arid western climates.
Prairie Dropseed is a slow growing grass that takes about three years to mature. However, it is well worth the wait since mature clumps are spectacular. Mature clumps can live for decades without the need for division. No serious pests or diseases are known to affect this plant. Propagate it by seed in fall or by division in spring.
Height: 36 to 40 Inches
Spread: 20 to 24 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9
Flower Color: Tan shades; Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun
Low Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer
Attracts Songbirds
Growth Rate: Slow
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant Flowers, Mass Planting
Imagine a prairie meadow swaying gently in the breeze, the air filled with the sweet fragrance of native grasses. Now picture that scene in your own garden, with the graceful Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' as the star. This captivating ornamental grass, commonly known as Prairie Dropseed, brings a touch of wild beauty and effortless elegance to any landscape. With its delicate foliage, airy flower panicles, and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, it is no wonder that 'Gone With The Wind' has become a favorite among gardening enthusiasts.
To gather information for this article, we explored a variety of online resources, including nursery websites, gardening magazines, and plant databases. We focused on finding reliable sources that provided detailed information about Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind', its characteristics, cultivation needs, and availability.
Discovering the Beauty of Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind'
Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' is a unique cultivar of Prairie Dropseed, a native grass known for its fine, hair-like foliage and the visual appeal it brings when planted in masses. While 'Gone With The Wind' is shorter than other varieties of Prairie Dropseed, it retains the features that make this grass so desirable. Its fine, green foliage forms dense, flowing mounds, creating a sense of movement and texture in the garden. In late summer, delicate, tan-colored flower panicles emerge, adding to the visual interest as they sway gracefully in the breeze. As the seasons change, the foliage takes on reddish hues in the fall, providing a warm and inviting display.
But the beauty of 'Gone With The Wind' extends beyond its visual appeal. This ornamental grass releases a subtle, enchanting fragrance that adds another dimension to the garden experience. The scent is both sweet and earthy, reminiscent of a prairie meadow after a summer rain. The gentle rustling of the foliage as it dances in the wind further enhances the sensory experience, creating a calming and peaceful atmosphere.
This cultivar offers a unique advantage for gardeners: its seeds do not self-sow. This means you can enjoy the beauty of 'Gone With The Wind' without worrying about it spreading uncontrollably throughout your garden.
Beyond its ornamental value, Prairie Dropseed plays an important role in the ecosystem. Birds and other wildlife rely on it as a source of food and shelter. Interestingly, Native Americans also recognized the value of this plant, using its seeds to make flour.
Growth Habit, Size, and Hardiness Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' typically grows to a height of 36-40 inches with a spread of 20-24 inches. It has a clumping growth habit, forming dense mounds of foliage that gradually expand over time. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, where it can be used as a specimen plant or in borders without overwhelming the surrounding plants.
This adaptable grass is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates across North America. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate some light shade. In the fall, the foliage develops attractive red overtones, adding to its appeal throughout the seasons.
Care and Cultivation One of the reasons for the popularity of Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' is its ease of care. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Here is a closer look at its cultivation needs:
Soil and Sunlight Requirements Prairie Dropseed thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. While it can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, it performs best in dry, rocky soil. For optimal growth and flowering, ensure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some light shade, but excessive shade may cause the plant to flop and become less vigorous.
Watering Needs and Techniques Once established, 'Gone With The Wind' is remarkably drought tolerant due to its deep root system. However, during its first growing season, regular watering is essential to help it develop a strong root system. Even after it is established, supplemental watering may be necessary during extended periods of drought, especially in arid western climates.
Fertilizing Guidelines Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require excessive fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production and may even weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning and Maintenance To maintain the plant's attractive appearance and promote healthy growth, it is recommended to cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This helps to remove any dead or damaged leaves and encourages fresh, vibrant growth. You can also divide mature clumps in the spring if you wish to propagate the plant or reduce its size.
Pests and Diseases Prairie Dropseed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, aphids can occasionally be a problem. If you notice any signs of aphid infestation, such as distorted leaves or a sticky residue, you can treat the plant with insecticidal soap or other appropriate methods. Regularly monitoring your plants and taking prompt action can help prevent any significant damage.
Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' is a truly exceptional ornamental grass that deserves a prominent place in any garden. Its delicate foliage, airy flower panicles, and adaptability make it a versatile and low-maintenance choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether you are looking to add movement and texture to your landscape, attract songbirds, or simply enjoy the beauty of a native prairie plant, 'Gone With The Wind' is sure to exceed your expectations.
This remarkable grass offers a unique combination of beauty, resilience, and ecological benefits. Its graceful form and captivating movement in the wind bring a sense of tranquility to the garden, while its adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it a joy to cultivate. Why not experience the magic of 'Gone With The Wind' in your own garden? Plant it in masses to create a flowing prairie-like scene, use it as a border to define garden beds, or let it stand alone as a striking specimen plant. However, you choose to incorporate it, Sporobolus heterolepis 'Gone With The Wind' is sure to become a cherished addition to your landscape.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
