Indiangrass
Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) is the third member of the tallgrass prairie's 'big three' warm-season grasses, alongside big bluestem and switchgrass. Its late-summer golden plume seedheads are one of the most photogenic sights on a mature CRP planting, and its mesic-site vigor makes it a reliable component of CP25 and CP2 mixes across the Midwest.
Why landowners plant indiangrass
- Golden fall seedheads give restored prairies their signature look.
- Establishes reliably on mesic sites where big bluestem sometimes stalls.
- Excellent late-season forage quality.
- Bunch-forming — leaves travel lanes for grassland birds.
Site fit
Indiangrass thrives on mesic silt loam and loam soils across the tallgrass prairie region. It is a required component of most CP25 tall-grass mixes and is included at 1–2 lb/ac in most CP42 pollinator blends. On droughty sand or heavy clay, reduce or drop it in favor of little bluestem or sideoats grama.
Establishment
Chaffy seed requires a native-seed drill or broadcast + cultipacking. Plant 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Slow first year, visible tillering in year two, full stand in year three — the same timeline as big bluestem.
Management
Late-spring burn on a 3–5 year rotation maintains stand vigor. Compatible with rotational grazing after full establishment.
CRP practice fit
Standard tall grass in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and eastern Plains CP25 mixes.
Anchor component of tallgrass CP2 permanent native grass plantings.
Included at 1–2 lb/ac to provide fall structure and nesting cover.
Featured mixes with indiangrass
Pairs well with
Big bluestem · Switchgrass · Compass plant · Prairie blazing star
Frequently asked questions
Yes — a diverse mix should include all three tallgrass 'big grasses' (big bluestem, Indiangrass, switchgrass) so structural gaps and drought years are covered by different species.