Alkali Sacaton
Alkali sacaton is a native, warm-season bunch grass that can be used as an ornamental grass. It grows naturally in the Colorado Springs area.
The thin leaves grow as a small mound. In mid to late summer, it produces large, airy seedheads that create a beautiful pink hue above the leaves. The seedheads remain on the plant for a long time so it has a long season of interest.
It can tolerate dry conditions and flooding, alkaline and salty soils, making it a very adaptable plant. Birds like to eat the seeds.
Alkali Sacaton
Alkali sacaton is a native, warm-season bunch grass that can be used as an ornamental grass. It grows naturally in the Colorado Springs area.
The thin leaves grow as a small mound. In mid to late summer, it produces large, airy seedheads that create a beautiful pink hue above the leaves. The seedheads remain on the plant for a long time so it has a long season of interest.
It can tolerate dry conditions and flooding, alkaline and salty soils, making it a very adaptable plant. Birds like to eat the seeds.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Sporobolus airoides
Pronunciation
spor-ROB-oh-lus air-OH-id-eez
Mature Height
2 to 3 ft.
Mature Spread
2 to 3 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
tan
Bloom time
August and September
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
western United States
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
not specified
Performance
There are several alkali sacaton grasses growing at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. The leaves are not very noticeable, but the seedheads are quite beautiful. It is a very good choice for a low water landscape. When planting, give each plant enough space to feature its beautiful outward growth.
Maintenance
Cut old stems to ground level in spring before new growth begins.