Sporobolus cryptandrus aka Sand Dropseed

Sporobolus cryptandrus, or sand dropseed, is a perennial grass. It belongs to Poaceae, the grass family. Its native range runs from Canada to northern Mexico. It grows across much of the United States between them. Kew places it in the temperate climate zone. Wild habitats include grasslands and sites where disturbance has opened the ground. It also grows in sandy soils near the coast.

This grass reaches about 3.3 feet [1 metre] in height. Its perennial habit means plants live for more than two years. Flowers appear from July to August. Each flower has both male and female organs. Wind carries the pollen, rather than insects or birds. The plant produces tiny seeds with husks that come off easily. These seeds are the part listed for human food.

Grow sand dropseed in full sun, since it cannot grow in shade. It suits sandy and loamy soils with good drainage. Plants For A Future also reports success in other well-drained soils. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Soil may be dry or moist, but drainage remains important. It can also cope with exposure near the sea. The source lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8. It records use in cultivated beds and for soil reclamation. It also flags weed potential, without giving its likely severity.

Seeds can be eaten raw or cooked. They can also be toasted and milled into flour. That flour can be eaten dry or cooked into porridge. It can also go into bread, biscuits, and other grain dishes. Plants For A Future gives its edible value three out of five. The same source lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. This is not a separate safety assessment for pets. Bundles of grass can serve as simple cleaning brushes.

Raise plants from seed or divide them in spring. Sow seeds in a greenhouse with only a thin covering. Germination should take about two weeks. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Strong plants can go outside in summer. Smaller plants may need their first winter under glass. Plant those out in late spring the next year. Large divisions can go straight into their final sites. Grow small divisions in pots until they establish.