Giant Sacaton

Giant Sacaton (Sporobolus wrightii) is a bold, architectural grass that brings height, movement, and texture to waterwise landscapes. Its airy golden plumes rise above mounds of graceful green foliage, making it a standout feature in the garden from summer through winter dormancy. Native to the arid Southwest—including parts of southern Utah—it thrives in tough soils, handles occasional flooding and drought, and offers a soft, swaying contrast to more rigid plants and hardscapes.

This is an excellent option for massing along slopes, anchoring dry streambeds, or using as a loose screen in a naturalistic planting. For beautiful combinations, pair it with native companions like Desert Four O'Clock, Desert Globemallow, Hooker's Evening Primrose, Apache Plume, New Mexico Privet, Prince’s Plume or Desert Penstemon. Whether you're building habitat or just want a dramatic, low-maintenance grass that doesn't flinch at heat or wind, Giant Sacaton delivers on both looks and resilience.

Close-up photo: Sue Carnahan