Dropseed Ornamental Grass (Sporobolus)

Sporobolus is a diverse genus of warm-season grasses; individual species differ in size, habitat, and garden use. Choose a species suited to the site and allow for variation in mature form rather than relying on one genus-wide size. [Missouri Department of Conservation](https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/prairie-dropseed) notes ten Sporobolus species in Missouri alone, including prairie dropseed and sand dropseed. ## Garden use Some species form fine-textured clumps that work as accents or low groundcovers, while others are taller grasses of open or wet habitats. Prairie dropseed, for example, makes a dense, arching mound and thrives in hot, dry settings; those details apply to that species, not every Sporobolus. Check local growing conditions and the identified species when siting a plant. ## Maintenance Let established clumps develop before dividing or cutting back. For a species-specific care plan, follow its light, moisture, and mature-size requirements; the genus includes grasses adapted to different conditions.