Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Poaceae

Genus:

Sorghastrum

Species:

Sorghastrum secundum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Graminoid

Height:

6-8 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov

Bloom Colors:

Brown

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to pine flatwoods and sandy uplands