Prairie dropseed in winter

Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is one of those conservative prairie species that has a quite restricted distribution in Wisconsin and elsewhere. According to Cochrane and Iltis, it is an indicator of unplowed and dry remnant prairies. Its specialized distribution is indicated by its high Coefficient of Conservatism (10). In Wisconsin it is found almost exclusively south of the Tension Zone.

Right now is an excellent time to look for prairie dropseed. Its characteristic colony structure and distinctive color make it stand out in prairies, since almost all other species have turned a drab brown or gray.

We originally had prairie dropseed only in the two prairie remnants (Units 1 and 4), where it has continued to thrive during restoration. In addition, we have been able to get it established in several sandy or dry areas, either from seed or from transplants. Today Kathie and I climbed the south-facing slope (Unit 6; photo above) and were pleased to see several well-established colonies, which we planted back in 2001. As noted, they were easy to spot from the characteristic color.

Even more exciting, when we reached the top of the slope and stepped onto the Rocky Overlook, we found a large number of prairie dropseed colonies that we did not know were there. Kathie is fairly certain she did not throw seeds into this area, and we certainly did not transplant them. In fact, since they are growing right out of the dolomite, it is a surprise that they have become so well established. (See photo below)

Strange that we had not noticed these colonies earlier this summer, when they would have been bright green.

We have also been able to get prairie dropseed established well in the dry sandy area at the southeast corner of the Pocket Prairie.

There are several other relatively rare species that are easy to spot right now because of their distinctive fall colors. More on these in a later post.