Status in Florida: Native
Native Habitat: Open woodlands, savannas, prairies, fields, roadsides. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions.
Native State, Country: Eastern and central United States
Growing Zones: 5 - 9
Size at Maturity: 3 - 5 feet tall, 2 - 3 feet wide
Phenology: Herbaceous perennial, warm-season grass
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Moderate
Growth Habit: Clumping, upright, with gracefully arching flower stalks.
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall (August - October)
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Texture: Adaptable, tolerates a wide range of soils, from sandy to clay.
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
Moisture Requirements: Average to dry. Drought tolerant once established.
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low/None
Keystone Plant: No, but provides valuable habitat.
Recommended Landscape Uses: Native plant gardens, wildflower meadows, prairies, restoration projects, ornamental grass gardens, erosion control.
Maintenance Tips: Little maintenance required. Can be cut back in late winter or early spring to remove old growth.
Considerations: Provides good cover and nesting material for wildlife. The airy seed heads add texture and movement to the landscape.
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Yes
Erosion Control: Yes, its fibrous root system helps stabilize soil.
Nitrogen Fixing: No
Edible: No (but provides forage for livestock)
Pet Safe: Generally considered safe for pets.
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: High
Historical Medicinal Uses: No widely known uses.
Florida Native Companion Plant:  Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem),  Solidago odora (Sweet Goldenrod)
Wildlife Benefit: Provides seeds and cover for birds and small mammals. Host plant for various skipper butterflies.
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes, for several skipper butterfly species.
Propagation: Seed, division
Length of time Seed is Viable: 1-2 years
Best month to Start Seeds: Spring or fall
Seed treatments: No special treatment needed