Andropogon virginicus (Broomsedge)

A tough, unfussy pioneer grass built for the marginal ground other species won't touch, broomsedge combines genuine deer resistance with striking winter-persistent color - a reliable choice for degraded, low-fertility restoration sites.

Species Overview

Andropogon virginicus, commonly called Broomsedge, is a warm-season perennial grass native to the eastern United States. It is known for its slender, upright stems that turn a striking golden-orange in fall, creating visual interest in naturalized and prairie-style landscapes. This grass grows to about 2 to 4 feet in height and produces small, fluffy seed heads. Broomsedge is well-adapted to poor, dry soils and thrives in full sun, making it a resilient choice for erosion control and habitat restoration.

Application

• Erosion control and habitat restoration on poor, degraded, or disturbed soils
• Naturalized and prairie-style landscape plantings, particularly marginal or low-fertility sites
• Roadside and right-of-way plantings
• Wildlife habitat plantings - winter cover and seed source for birds
• Deer-pressured restoration sites

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun - tolerates partial shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Poor, dry, infertile soils; also tolerates seasonal flooding and a range of wet-to-dry conditions
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - An old-field and dry-soil species; not tolerant of standing water.
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Orange
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACU (Facultative Upland) - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region; see flags on a regional conflict
• Native Range: Eastern United States, north to the Great Lakes
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Shade Tolerance: Intolerant
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.) (14 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Growth Habit: Vase-shaped
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports butterflies