9/1/2023 0 Comments Big blue stem grass care![]() ![]() Today, Andropogon and Schizachyrium are considered distinct enough to warrant separate genera. Small published the name Schizachyrium scoparium in his Flora of the Southeastern United States. In 1829, German botanist Christian Gottfried Daniel Nees von Esenbeck created a new genus, Schizachyrium, and 34 years later John K. The publication Flora Boreali-Americana (1803, Flora of North America by Andreas Michaux) referred to Little Bluestem as Andropogon scoparius. Their subtle differences sparked debates within the botanical community starting over 200 years ago. Schizachyrium scoparium was previously classified as Andropogon scoparius and is sometimes still listed as such. Grasses in Schizachyrium were once considered part of Andropogon. Quick establishment on disturbed soils makes it perfect for banks and slopes, restoration projects, and urban trail landscapes. ![]() Schizachyrium scoparium has very few pest problems and in managed landscapes is unlikely to be browsed by deer. Wind-based seeding is typically no more than five or six feet from the plant animals may transport seeds farther. These extensive roots help native grasses withstand periods of drought. Little Bluestem’s root system is deep and fibrous, potentially five feet, with some roots developing horizontally. It flourishes in the tallgrass prairies, and has been named the official state grass of both Kansas and Nebraska.Ī myriad of blue-, green- and purple-colored foliage creates kaleidoscopes throughout spring and summer, and fall brings reds, coppers, and orange hues. It’s especially lovely in meadow, prairie, and mixed plantings. Little Bluestem provides cover for ground birds and small mammals, and the seed is eaten by songbirds and upland gamebirds. According to the USDA, it’s one of the best grasses for nesting and roosting habitat. It's also valuable for insects-lending nesting material and structure for native bees, providing pollen for pollinators, and serving as a host plant for skipper butterfly caterpillars. It is found in all states except Oregon, Nevada, and Alaska. With high drought tolerance, Little Bluestem’s range extends across North America and into a large portion of Canada. It will grow in a variety of soils, thriving in those that are well-drained, medium to dry, and infertile. These grasses are most commonly called Little Bluestem, but can go by “bunch grass,” “beard grass,” or “creeping bluestem.” According to the USDA, Little Bluestem is one of the most widely distributed native grasses in North America. For a fun take on this natural beauty, check out our Little Bluestem infographic. To help choose the best cultivars for your needs, download our Little Bluestem Comparison Chart. For a fresh look and beautiful style, try Little Bluestem in a decorative container. ![]() For those who want a tidier look, newer cultivars like 'Standing Ovation' have been selected to stay upright even under these flop-prone conditions. Shade, excess fertility, and too much moisture will all contribute to lax, floppy growth. Little Bluestem requires nearly full sun for upright growth and looks best when cut back in late winter or early spring, allowing new leaf blades to fill in. They also shine in meadows, prairies, and mixed plantings. It gives food, shelter, and nesting material to wildlife and attracts birds and pollinators. They establish quickly on disturbed soils-perfect for banks, slopes, and restorations. It is able to grow on both acidic and alkaline soils. Schizachyrium is tough and adaptable, tolerant of a range of moisture conditions from average to nearly arid. Little Bluestem is quite hardy, extending from Zones 3-9. Flowering culms rise above the leaves in mid- to late summer to produce intricate blooms that become translucent and showy in fall. It's a mostly upright bunch grass, with basal foliage emerging in mid- to late spring. The foliage of Little Bluestem adds a kaleidoscope of pastel colors in summer and coppery tones in fall. You can read more about its selection in our blog post. That's part of why the Perennial Plant Association (PPA) named Schizachyrium scoparium and cultivars the 2022 Perennial Plant of the Year®. It has high ecological value and low maintenance needs. We grow one species of Schizachyrium, the North American native Schizachyrium scoparium, commonly known as Little Bluestem.
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