Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Schizachyrium

Species:

Schizachyrium spadiceum

USDA Symbol:

SCSP4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

150 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

aug,sep,oct,nov

Bloom Colors:

bronze, tan

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★☆☆☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fall Color:

bronze, copper, orange

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts vigorously from base after fire. Adapted to periodic burns typical of Gulf Coast prairies.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Light may enhance germination. Warm temperatures (20-30°C) optimal.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI