Quick answer: Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) is native to 19 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry-Moist |
| Soil | Moist, rich soils - calcareous, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, limestone-based |
| Bloom | Bloom Aug-Oct |
| Height | Up to 8 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Seeds feed small mammals and birds, larval host for Pepper-and-Salt Skipper, nesting material for native bees |
Lookalike alert
Watch out
Bulk (PA); cultivar 'Cheyenne' (TX).
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
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