Rat-Tail Grass: A Hardy Non-Native Grass for Challenging Landscapes
If you’re dealing with tough growing conditions and looking for a low-maintenance grass that can handle what Mother Nature throws at it, you might want to get acquainted with rat-tail grass (Sporobolus indicus var. capensis). This resilient perennial grass, also known as African dropseed, has made itself at home in several U.S. territories and states, though it’s not originally from around here.
What Exactly Is Rat-Tail Grass?
Rat-tail grass is a non-native perennial grass that belongs to the graminoid family—basically, it’s a true grass with all the characteristics you’d expect. Originally hailing from Africa (the capensis in its scientific name hints at its Cape region origins), this hardy plant has established itself in Hawaii, Guam, the U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, and the Virgin Islands.
You might also see this plant referenced by its synonym, Sporobolus africanus, or hear it called African dropseed. Whatever name you use, you’re talking about the same tough-as-nails grass that’s adapted to challenging conditions.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
This grass has spread to several U.S. territories where it reproduces on its own and persists without human intervention. You’ll find established populations in Hawaii, the Pacific Basin, Guam, other U.S. Minor Outlying Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Should You Plant Rat-Tail Grass?
Here’s where things get a bit nuanced. Since rat-tail grass isn’t native to the United States, and we don’t have complete information about its invasive potential, it’s worth considering both sides of the coin.
The Case for Planting It:
- Extremely drought tolerant once established
- Thrives in poor soils where other plants struggle
- Low maintenance requirements
- Good for erosion control on difficult sites
- Forms attractive tufted clumps with delicate, airy seed heads
Things to Consider:
- It’s not native, so it doesn’t support local ecosystems the way indigenous plants do
- We don’t have complete data on its long-term environmental impacts
- Native alternatives might provide better wildlife benefits
Growing Rat-Tail Grass Successfully
If you decide this grass fits your landscaping needs, you’ll be happy to know it’s pretty forgiving to grow.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Full sun exposure
- Well-draining soils (it actually prefers poor soils)
- USDA hardiness zones 9-11
- Drought conditions once established
Planting and Care Tips:
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce watering significantly
- No fertilizer needed—this grass thrives in nutrient-poor conditions
- Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins
- Divide clumps every few years if you want to propagate
Landscape Uses
Rat-tail grass works best in naturalized landscapes rather than formal gardens. Consider it for:
- Erosion control on slopes
- Restoration of disturbed areas
- Low-water landscaping projects
- Areas where other plants have failed
Wildlife and Pollinator Value
As a wind-pollinated grass, rat-tail grass doesn’t offer much direct benefit to pollinators like bees and butterflies. However, its seeds may provide some food for birds, though we don’t have specific data on wildlife benefits for this particular variety.
Consider Native Alternatives
Before settling on rat-tail grass, you might want to explore native grass options that could provide similar benefits while supporting local wildlife. Native bunch grasses or regional dropseed species could offer comparable drought tolerance with better ecosystem benefits.
The Bottom Line
Rat-tail grass is undeniably tough and can solve problems in challenging landscapes where few other plants survive. However, since it’s not native and we’re still learning about its long-term impacts, consider it carefully alongside native alternatives. If you do choose to plant it, you’ll have a low-maintenance grass that can handle drought, poor soils, and neglect better than most plants in your garden.
