Commonly referred to as Indian or Wood Grass, Sorghastrum nutans is a warm season grass blooming in July. During this period it has reddish-bronze downy flower spikes that rise tall above the foliage, and in the fall the grass blades are green turning bronze to burnt orange.

Native to Ontario.

Grows best in full sun to partial shade in an average to dry soil. This grass can become floppy if the soil is too rich and moist. It can tolerate heat and drought but needs moisture during long hot spells. Should be cut down to about 12 cm above ground level in the spring.

Warm Season Grasses: These grasses are much slower starting in the spring. They do not push new growth until temperatures warm in early to midsummer. They flower later in the summer or fall with most blooms remaining into the winter. Most warm season grasses tolerate heat, humidity and drought; some even thrive in these conditions.