Grass
Indian Grass
Sorghastrum nutans
Varieties We Carry
StandardSorghastrum nutans
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow
Mature size3-5 feet × 1-2 feet
About Indian Grass
Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) is a native North American tallgrass prairie species forming upright clumps of blue-green foliage that turns rich orange-gold in autumn. Its golden-bronze, feathery seed heads are a hallmark of fall meadow plantings and attract seed-eating birds. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Clay, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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F
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JNow
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Requires full sun for best growth and fall color. In NE Florida, Indian Grass performs well in open meadow and naturalized settings; it will become sparse and flop without adequate direct sunlight.
Water
Drought-tolerant once established and requires little to no supplemental irrigation in NE Florida after the first growing season. Avoid overwatering, which can cause root problems in the humid Florida climate.
Soil & Fertilizer
Adaptable to a wide range of soils from sandy to clay, including NE Florida's native sandy flatwoods soils. Avoid heavy fertilization — too much nitrogen produces rank growth and reduces the ornamental seed heads. No regular fertilizer needed.
Similar needs
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Common questions
Is Indian Grass a good plant for St. Augustine?
Indian Grass is a grass for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-5 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.