Sudangrass: A Fast-Growing Annual Grass for Specific Garden Needs
If you’re looking for a tall, fast-growing grass that can quickly fill space in your garden or landscape, you might have come across Sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor drummondii). This annual grass has quite a story to tell – and some important considerations for gardeners to weigh before planting.
What Exactly is Sudangrass?
Sudangrass is an annual grass that belongs to the sorghum family. Don’t let the long list of scientific synonyms intimidate you – this plant has been around long enough to collect quite a few names over the years, including Andropogon drummondii and Sorghum sudanense. At its heart, it’s a robust, bunch-type grass that can reach impressive heights of up to 2.5 feet in a single growing season.
This green-foliaged grass produces small yellow flowers in early summer, though they’re not particularly showy. What really catches the eye is its rapid growth rate and dense summer foliage that creates substantial visual impact in the landscape.
The Native Status Question
Here’s where things get interesting: Sudangrass isn’t native to North America. Originally from Africa, this grass has established itself across much of the continent, reproducing spontaneously in the wild from Canada down to the lower 48 states and Hawaii. It’s found its way into 24 states and 2 Canadian provinces, thriving in diverse climates from Alabama to Oregon.
While it’s not considered invasive or noxious in most areas, its non-native status is worth considering when planning your garden, especially if you’re focused on supporting local ecosystems.
Growing Conditions and Care
Sudangrass is surprisingly adaptable when it comes to growing conditions, which partly explains its widespread distribution. Here’s what this grass needs to thrive:
- Soil: Adaptable to coarse, medium, or fine-textured soils with pH between 5.7-6.8
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, with low moisture requirements
- Sunlight: Full sun only – this grass won’t tolerate shade
- Temperature: Needs at least 90 frost-free days and minimum temperatures above 57°F
- Fertility: Requires high fertility soils for best performance
The plant grows actively during summer and fall, putting on rapid growth that can be quite dramatic. However, it has slow regrowth after cutting and doesn’t resprout if damaged.
Planting and Propagation
Sudangrass is typically grown from seed, which is routinely available commercially. With about 44,240 seeds per pound, a little goes a long way. Seeds are abundant in summer, though they don’t persist long once they fall.
Plant seeds directly in warm soil after the last frost date. The grass needs those warm summer temperatures to really take off, so patience is key in cooler climates.
Garden Applications and Design Role
So when might you actually want to grow Sudangrass? Here are some practical applications:
- Temporary screening: Its rapid growth and 2.5-foot height make it useful for quick privacy
- Erosion control: The root system can help stabilize soil on slopes
- Agricultural purposes: Often grown as forage or cover crop
- Wildlife food plots: Seeds can provide food for birds and small mammals
Important Considerations
Before you rush to plant Sudangrass, there are a few cautions to keep in mind:
- Slight toxicity: The plant can be mildly toxic under certain conditions
- Allelopathic properties: It can inhibit the growth of other plants nearby
- Limited wildlife benefits: As a wind-pollinated grass, it offers little for pollinators
- No fire tolerance: Not suitable for fire-prone areas
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re drawn to Sudangrass for its quick growth and screening potential, consider these native alternatives that can provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems:
- Native bunch grasses: Species like little bluestem or buffalo grass depending on your region
- Native annual wildflowers: For quick coverage with added pollinator benefits
- Regional native grasses: Check with your local native plant society for recommendations
The Bottom Line
Sudangrass can be a useful plant for specific applications – particularly agricultural or temporary landscaping needs. Its rapid growth and adaptability are genuine assets. However, for most home gardeners interested in supporting local wildlife and ecosystems, native alternatives will likely serve you better in the long run.
If you do choose to plant Sudangrass, use it thoughtfully and consider it a short-term solution rather than a permanent landscape feature. And always check local regulations, as some areas may have restrictions on non-native species.
