Drought Tolerant Perennial Grasses

Drought tolerant perennial grasses can survive without supplemental watering and are perfect for a multi-season garden plot. They can add showy winter displays with interesting color changes and seed heads. For those looking for extra ideas for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening, drought tolerant perennial grasses can really pack a punch. Here are a few choices of perennial grass favorites.

Sorghastrum nutans (Indiangrass)

This particular grass grows up to one to two feet high with deep set roots and a clump forming growth. Leaves are more narrow at the base than they are at the top of the plant, stiff and blue-green. In the fall season, the foliage turns a gold color and it will have gold or bronze plumes. Plumes are panicles four to 12 inches long. Hardy in USDA zones of three to nine, indiangrass should be planted in full sun with moist soil. It tolerates partial shade and drought, however. Propagation should be with seed or division, preferably in the spring or fall seasons.

Uniola paniculata (Sea Oats)

Sea oats have culms, or above-ground stems, six feet high and leaves two feet long. The yellowish panicles, or clusters of drooping seed heads, make this an interesting ornamental grass choice. Sea oats will be hardy in USDA hardiness zones six through 10 and prefers full or partial sun and moist sandy soil. It can tolerate drought, salt and frost. To propagate, use division of the rhizomes or use seed.

Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem)

Little bluestem has a bluish tint to the base of the stem and this is how it was named. Its growth varies from a few inches to up to 20 inches high, depending on conditions. It is clump forming, with blue-green leaves and seed spikes in the fall. Foliage in the fall turns a purplish-bronze. Seed spikes are fringed and hairy, looking much like a bearded man. Little bluestem is grown in dry soils and partial shade. However, it flowers best with moist soils. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones of three to nine, surviving cold seasons well if cut back. Propagate by seed or by clump division. Seed will work better if it has been chilled before planting.

Keep in mind, ornamental grasses aren’t your average sod; they can really bring interesting textures to your garden plot or your landscape. Those trying their hand at winter gardening can always use one or two ornamental grasses to achieve a light airy feel.