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Figure 1 S. cryptandrus U.S. distribution
Figure 2 S. cryptandrus hair tuft
Figure 3 S. cryptandrus seeds
Figure 4 S. cryptandrus inflorescence
Sporobolus cryptandrus is also known as Sand Dropseed. It is widely distributed throughout the United States. It is known to be distributed up to USDA hardiness zone 4. This U.S. Native plant is considered a weedy invasive is some states and is a threatened or endangered species in others.
Description:
Sporobolus cryptandrus is a perennial bunch grass, which can grow to be 2-3 feet tall. This warm-season grass commonly occurs in sandy soils, as its name implies. It’s long leaf blades tend to roll inward as the plant matures. This rolling may help to shade the leaf and decrease leaf temperatures. It is distinguishable from other dropseeds by the tuft of white hairs along its sheath. It is also characterized by its narrow pyramid shaped flowering heads, which are sometimes concealed within the leaf sheaths. It usually begins to flower in late summer to early fall. Sand dropseed produces an abundant seed crop. Its seeds remain viable for many years and are readily re-seeded. Seeds from many species of this genus are sometimes forcibly ejected.
Ecology:
Sand dropseed is specially adapted to sandy soils at lower elevations and gravelly soils at higher elevations. It has a high drought tolerance and requires little water. It also has a medium tolerance for soil salinity. Sand dropseed propagates solely by seed. This grass is a moderately palatable for browsing animals. Sand dropseed tends to increase in overgrazed pastures.
Uses:
Sporobolus cryptandrus is an edible grass used by Native Americans. The Apache, Navajo and Hopi ground seeds into flour to make bread. Some birds and small mammals also eat its seeds. It has a fair palatability rating for livestock and wildlife. It is a fair source of energy but poor in protein. It is used as a winter forage species for livestock. It is also often used for rehabilitation of disturbed sites due to its ability to grow on a wide range of soil conditions.