Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues' (Andropogon) - LITTLE BLUESTEM 'THE BLUES'

Uniform selection of native grass (propagated from divisions) with stunning blue foliage with purplish tips.

In late summer and early fall purple, orange, and many more shades of blue show up.

Best for average, not too rich or amended soils!

Fluffy seeds in the winter = cut back at the end of winter or early spring.

Warm season grass = develops in the warm season.

Blooming time: June–July.

Size: with flowers 3.5-4’ high x 2’ wide (the leaves 2' tall)

USDA zones : 3 to 9

Culture: Sun to half sun, average soil, preferably drier, sandier, drained, and less fertile. Does well in heat and humidity. Too fertile soil (heavily amended), too much shade or too much moisture causes flopping.

Moisture Needs : average, medium to medium-dry

Origin: Uniform = clonaly propagated Litle Bluedtem (from divisions). The species is variable and covers vaste area from Alberta to Quebec south to Arizona and Florida. It naturally occurs in prairies, clearings, hills, limestone glades, roadsides, waste areas and open woods.

Deer/rabbit resistant : yes/yes (but young leaves can be grazed by deer).

Attracts Butterflies or Pollinators : it hosts caterpillars of at least 6 species of skippers. The seed provide food to a variety of small songbirds.

Attracts Hummingbirds : no

Pot Size: square 3.5" perennial x 4" deep perennial pot (1.22 pt/580 ml)

Pictures copyright: US Perennials

Plant combinations: great native grass for public spaces, borders, modern stylish plantings, wild gardens, meadows or prairie-like landscaping. The best, if planted in groups or masses. It's beauty is more reveaoled, when combined with big flowers of Echinacea, Helianthus, Rudbeckias or Heleniums, or with plant with larger leaves like Eupatorium, Parthenium, etc.