Purpletop is an ornamental bunchgrass that grows three to five feet tall. It is most attractive in fall with its dark purple seed heads. Purpletop and other native grasses are important for wildlife, providing both food and shelter. Purpletop is a host plant for several skipper butterflies whose larvae feed on the foliage.

Habitats include fields, roadsides, open woods, glades, and savannas. This is an easy grass to grow and tolerates drought and road salts.

Uses: Ornamental grass, salt tolerant, deer resistant, wildlife
Bloom time: July - September

Height: 3 to 5 feet
Space: 2 to 3 feet

Sun: Full sun to medium shade
Moisture: Average

Seed: This warm-season grass will germinate in spring when soil temperature is appropriate. It does not need to be winter-sown, and stratification is not necessary.

• ~200 seeds per packet
• 465,000 seeds per pound
• 1 oz. will cover at least 900 square feet