Although it is common in prairies and sandy areas, Sorghastrum nutans the ornamental value of this grass has been overlooked. Native throughout most of North America except for the Far West, Indian grass grows in clumps about two feet tall. In mid-summer colorful plumes appear that extend two to three feet above the foliage on blue stems with hints of purple. The newly emerging flowers or "glumes" are dark red and orange, with long hairs or "awns" and showy yellow pollen, maturing to golden yellow. The foliage ranges from green to powdery blue, becoming orange in autumn. Several ornamental selections have been made and marketed.