Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) One of the most fragile of prairie grasses, prairie dropseed forms a low fountain-like clump of graceful blades which grow in a near perfect circle. Mature plants create mounds from which they return year after year and can be decades old. video photo by Valerie Spale Characteristic of high quality mesic prairie, this grass is known for its unusual fragrance. It has been compared to the aroma of buttered popcorn after rubbing the seeds. Delicate seed stalks give the prairie a silky autumn texture. photo by Tim Burke