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big bluestem stems in an open fielda misty meadow containing big bluestembig bluestem flowers in bloom
big bluestem stems in an open fielda misty meadow containing big bluestembig bluestem flowers in bloombig bluestem stems in an open fielda misty meadow containing big bluestembig bluestem flowers in bloom

Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii

Big Bluestem is tall and stately, the archetypic plant of the prairies. This grass is a great replacement for non-native ornamental grasses, many of which invade surrounding habitats. Big Bluestem is a grass of many colors! Stems emerge bluish in spring. In summer, they turn green and are topped with purplish flowers. And in the fall, they turn a handsome red, bronze, and lavender. The seeds feed birds over the winter. This long-lived grass is a bit slow to start, but it may eventually need division to control its size in a smaller garden.

Details

Height36” - 84”
Spread24"
Bloom SeasonJune – September
Soil Types
clayClay
loamLoam
sandSand
Soil Moisture
dryDry
mediumMedium
moistMoist
Sun Exposure
partSunPart Sun
fullSunFull Sun

Range Map

NativeNo Record

Ecological Benefits

Maintenance Tips

  • Consider removing seedlings every so often to control spread
  • Older plants may require some division to control overall size