Sporobolus airoides (Alkali Sacaton)

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Sporobolus airoides
Alkali Sacaton

CHARACTERISTICS

Height: 3 - 4 ft

Width: 2 ft

Hardiness: Very hardy

Natural Setting: Arid landscapes in southern and central California where there is subterranean moisture, including alkaline sinks, playas, edges of vernal pools or seasonal drainages³

Plant Type: Grass

Dormancy: Winter Deciduous

Form: Upright, Fountain

Growth Rate: Moderate

Flower Season: Summer

Soil: Adaptable, prefers moist but not saturated soils

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Water Requirements: Low/Moderate once established

Cold Tolerance: 5° F

 

OVERVIEW

A good grass for mass planting, adds a nice textural element to a landscape.

HISTORY

Since it’s found in dry areas with subterranean moisture, early settlers of the west viewed it as an indicator of underground water.³

ANECDOTAL EXPERIENCES

  • Best used in mass plantings around specimen shrubs/trees

  • No less than 2x month watering for good appearance

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Sphaeralcea ambigua ‘Coral’(Coral Desert Globemallow)

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Sphaeralcea ambigua (Desert Globemallow)