Giant Sacaton

Sporobolus wrightii

spor-ROB-oh-lus RITE-ee-eye
5 to 7 ft.
3 to 5 ft.
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very low

tawny seed heads

late summer to fall

5 to 7 ft.

3 to 5 ft.

No

southwestern United States

sun

USDA zones 5-8

hardy to 7,000 ft.

Giant sacaton is a large, southwest native ornamental grass. It has wide green, arching blades that create a big mound of leaves.

In late summer, it produces tall, gorgeous spikes of impressive seedheads. Not only is giant sacaton very drought-tolerant, but it is very resilient to Colorado's erratic weather conditions. It also makes a nice accent plant of backdrop for other plants.

It can be a great substitute for maiden grass for low water areas. 

very low

tawny seed heads

late summer to fall

5 to 7 ft.

3 to 5 ft.

No

southwestern United States

sun

USDA zones 5-8

hardy to 7,000 ft.

Giant sacaton has been planted widely throughout the Xeriscape Demonstration Gardens. It is a great choice where a large, drought tolerant ornamental grass is desired. I tis a great low water alternative to maiden grass.

Protect it from rabbits when young. It is very difficult to transplant when mature due to its extensive root system. 

Remove the previous year's growth in the spring before new growth appears.