Backlit Prairie Dropseed
In my home landscaping in Indianapolis, IN.
Of the grasses native to Indiana's original prairies, prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is my favorite. I have an area next to my driveway where clumps of it share space with New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) and dwarf chinkapin oak (Quercus prinoides). Its flower heads are loose, wispy panicles that, in my opinion, are very difficult to photograph up close in a manner that does them justice. They are flowering right now, and the grass clumps look really great from a distance when backlit by morning or evening light. Another bonus of this plant is that from the time it begins to flower until into fall when its seeds are fully developed, it has a pleasant aroma that to me is just plain wonderful. I wish I could bottle that aroma and wear it!! Many prairie enthusiasts know exactly what I'm talking about, but not everyone feels the same way about it. Either you "get it" or you don't!
Backlit Prairie Dropseed
In my home landscaping in Indianapolis, IN.
Of the grasses native to Indiana's original prairies, prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is my favorite. I have an area next to my driveway where clumps of it share space with New Jersey tea (Ceanothus americanus) and dwarf chinkapin oak (Quercus prinoides). Its flower heads are loose, wispy panicles that, in my opinion, are very difficult to photograph up close in a manner that does them justice. They are flowering right now, and the grass clumps look really great from a distance when backlit by morning or evening light. Another bonus of this plant is that from the time it begins to flower until into fall when its seeds are fully developed, it has a pleasant aroma that to me is just plain wonderful. I wish I could bottle that aroma and wear it!! Many prairie enthusiasts know exactly what I'm talking about, but not everyone feels the same way about it. Either you "get it" or you don't!