The 8 to 12-inch clumps of basal leaves are smaller than prairie dropseed's. This grass is most attractive in summer and fall with its seed structures hanging to one side of the stem. When in bloom, look closely for the bright orange/red stamens hanging from the flower. Basal leaves will turn shades of purple, orange, and red in the fall. Cut the previous year's growth back to 5 inches in the spring.

Sideoats is a good companion plant for spring-blooming flowers as it stays relatively short early in the season. It is a host plant for skipper butterflies. This warm-season grass is very drought resistant and will grow near the allelopathic black walnut.

Uses: ornamental grass, drought resistant, deer resistant, birds, butterflies
Bloom time: July to September

Height: 18 to 24 inches
Space: 12 to 18 inches

Sun: Full sun
Moisture: dry to average