Purple Love Grass

= Purple Love Grass (Eragrostis spectabilis) =
Purple Love Grass (Eragrostis spectabilis), a native perennial grass sways gracefully in the breeze across open meadows and prairies of North America.
This native grass plays an important role in erosion control and provides habitat for wildlife. It has great ornamental value when in bloom and will go dormant in winter. It can be used as a lawn alternative, with mowing only a few times per season in low traffic areas. It's highly sought for reintroduction attempts in plains and disturbed areas due to it's hardy nature.Wikipedia It can even be planted under Black Walnut and will grow almost anywhere. Couple that with it's slow and steady spread and it's a great option that won't take over the garden too quickly and adds a lot of value.
== Sowing and Reproduction ==
Flowers are bisexual. There is no gender requirement to grow Eragrostis spectabilis. It is a perennial and will return year after year in the correct climate.
Method
Simply sow directly on top of the soil at any time. Light is required to make Purple Lovegrass grow, so surface sowing is a must.Prairie Moon Nursery Paradoxically, other sources claim light and dark is equally effective.RNGR Native Plant Network
== Cold Stratification ==
No cold stratification is needed. However some sources state it is needed or that germination rate benefits from it. If possible sow in fall, or use artificial stratification for 90 days before planting.
== Harvesting ==
When seeds mature they dry and fall off the plant and are blown around by the wind. NC State Extension They can form tumbleweeds.Minnesota Wildflowers In September - November when seeds bloom purple, wait for them to dry and harvest by cutting the stalks or pulling the seeds before they fall naturally. Epic Gardening
== Storage ==
Dry fully on a paper plate (topped with another to prevent it blowing away if necessary) tray or paper bag. Save dry in a paper or glassine envelope or follow cold stratification instructions, depending on preference.
== Toxicity ==
No signs of Toxicity can be found. Humans, unknown. Cats and Dogs, Unknown. Safe for livestock as commonly used for feed and grazing.