Andropogon gerardii 'Dancing Wind'
Andropogon gerardii 'Dancing Wind' is a graceful native ornamental grass with upright blue green foliage that develops warm copper and bronze tones in fall. Its airy seed heads and strong vertical form create movement in the landscape while providing year round structure and valuable habitat for wildlife.
Height & Spread: 48 - 60 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to dry well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This selection of Andropogon gerardii is native to North America and is an important component of native prairie ecosystems where it provides habitat, cover, and food resources for wildlife.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides seeds for songbirds and valuable shelter during fall and winter when its tall stems remain standing.
Butterflies
- Supports skipper butterflies and other grassland species which use native grasses as important host plants during their life cycle.
Small Mammals
- Creates protective cover for small wildlife while contributing to the habitat value of native prairie plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow the clumps to develop their full upright form and graceful movement.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for native gardens, meadow plantings, borders, and restoration landscapes where its height and seasonal color create strong structure.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds colorful summer blooms and complements the upright prairie form with strong pollinator value.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Provides bright yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with the blue green foliage.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Brings vibrant orange blooms and supports butterflies in sunny native plantings.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Extends seasonal interest with late summer golden flowers that pair well with native grasses.
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (Slender Mountain Mint) - Adds airy texture and attracts pollinators around the grass planting.