About Indian Grass

Drought Tolerance

• Indian grass is a warm-season grass. It flourishes in the warm months of late spring to early fall and dies with the first hard frost. It continues growing through the warmest months of the year. Unlike some cultivated species, Indian grass doesn't need much water to flourish. Its roots may extend 7 feet into the ground in search of water.

Erosion Control

• Those long roots make Indian grass good for erosion control along stream banks and roadsides. The roots bind together holding the soil. Even after the grass dies in the winter, the roots and stubble remain, holding snow that eventually melts and returns moisture to the soil. Prescribed burns in the spring or regular mowing help control weeds and encourage new growth without the erosion risks presented by tilling the grass.

Wildlife Habitat

• When settlers first came to the North American prairies, they found buffalo, grouse and other species feeding on native grass. Indian grass was one species on these prairies. Wildlife managers today seed areas designated for conservation with native grass species including Indian grass. The grass provides forage and shelter for animals and birds. Even in winter, the grass stubble provides cover and nesting material.

Domestic Use

• Farmers and ranchers sow Indian grass as an alternative to cultivated grass species for livestock grazing. The Indian grass requires little extra water and fertilizer to flourish, and the grass provides good nutrition for livestock. The University of Missouri Extension reports one study found that beef cattle that grazed on pastures of big bluestem, a close relative of Indian grass, produced as much milk as those cattle that were fed alfalfa.