Spartina pectinata

Prairie Cord Grass

Long, graceful blades are sharply serrated and can easily cut skin, giving the plant its common name, Rip Gut. Inconspicuous flowers bloom in late summer. Prairie Cord Grass forms a sod with its heavy, multi-branched root system that can reach a depth of ten feet. Spreads by seed and creeping rhizomes to form dense, monotypic patches. Offers both food and cover for a variety of wildlife. Excellent selection for stabilizing stream banks, pond edges and other wet areas.

Additional Information:
Was used by pioneers to create sod houses and thatched roofs. Blades were also braided into fuel cords.

Height 4-10 Feet

Spread 2-4 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-5

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Characteristics & Attributes