Andropogon virginicus

Andropogon virginicus is a grass native across the southeast, naturally found in open sites (like fields and roadsides). It grows best in full sun sites with dry to moist soils. This grass has showy, feathery seed heads that mature in the fall. Birds eat the seeds through the winter. It is fairly resistant to deer. It grows to be around four feet tall, and provides cover for wildlife. The stems turn a reddish purple in the summer and fall, and it is a host plant for several native butterfly species. Andropogon virginicus is an excellent plant for restoration projects.