Sorghastrum nutans 'MNYG318153' Golden Sunset® 

Plant Patent Applied for No. 62/995,225

First selected in 2005, and since 2010 propagated and trialed in several locations in Minnesota and the Midwest, Golden Sunset® yellow prairie grass was selected for its upright stature, clean olive-green foliage and numerous early yellow and golden-bronze flowers.

One of four dominant native grasses to the tallgrass prairie of the Central United States, Sorghastrum nutans, or yellow prairie grass, grows on a wide variety of sites and soils. Native plants in natural or restored prairies will be taller in southern states and shorter with earlier flowers in northern locations. Golden Sunset® originated from South Dakota, and has proven winter hardy as far north as USDA Hardiness Zone 3.

Golden Sunset® flowers first emerge in mid-August and remain attractive through the winter. Unlike most yellow prairie grass, Golden Sunset® remains upright and does not lodge or fall over. This new patented grass from the University of Minnesota will be a good addition to landscapes throughout the U.S. but especially in northern climates.

Plants grow to 4-6 feet tall at maturity, but are closer to 4 or 5 feet the first year or two. Large mature plants can be 36 inches wide, with hundreds of flowering stems. Most plants from this species available today have blue-green foliage, Golden Sunset® differs in having olive-green foliage that is just over ½ inch wide. Flowers average 9 inches in length and are a showy yellow and golden-bronze in color. Golden Sunset® has no known pests or diseases.

• For more cultural information, please contact Mary H. Meyer, University of Minnesota meyer023@umn.edu
• For more information on licensing, please contact BJ Haun, Technology Licensing Officer, Technology Commercialization, University of Minnesota, Phone: 612-626-8495

Thank you for your interest in U of M varieties.

Blue Heaven® and Golden Sunset® are trademarks of the University of Minnesota.