How To Order: Quantity options listed represent bulk weights. Examples: 1 = 1 lbs, 25 = 25 bs.
Common Name: Prairie Sandreed
Scientific Name: Calamovilfa longifolia
Native / Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Rangeland and pasture
~Sandy soil stabilization
~Wildlife habitat improvement
Height: 3 - 5 feet
Root Type: Sod
Growing Season: Warm
Soil Types: Sandy and loamy soils pereferred
Tolerances:
~Drought
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Minimum Precipitation: 10 – 12 inches
Lifecycle: Perennial
Planting Seed Rate: 5 - 8 lbs/acre
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 274,000 seeds
Optimal Planting Season: Spring
Planting Depth: ½ inch
Stratification Requirements: None
Category: Grass
Description:
Prairie Sandreed exhibits a rhizomatous growth pattern and forms sod, displaying a drought-tolerant nature and a distinctive tall and slender appearance. It is a warm-season grass native to regions spanning from Manitoba to Quebec, Canada, extending southward to Idaho, Colorado, Kansas, and Indiana. Although it thrives best in sandy soils, it also performs reasonably well in loamy textures, and its ideal annual rainfall range is between 16 to 20 inches. This grass is prevalent across the continental USA, predominantly on sandy soils, with the exception of the southeastern United States.
Recognized as a vital species in grazing programs, Prairie Sandreed stands out due to its abundance, high yield potential, and the even distribution of herbage production throughout the growing season. It is commonly incorporated into native mixes for range seeding on sandy sites. Its significant role in stabilizing and revegetating sandy soils is attributed to its rhizomatous growth habit and extensive fibrous root system. Along the shores of the Great Lakes, it serves as an effective tool for wind erosion control, dune stabilization, and improvement of water quality.
Resources:
NRCS Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CALO
NRCS Plant Guide: plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_calo.pdf
NRCS Fact Sheet: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_calo.pdf
