Schizachyrium scoparium
Little bluestem
An upright and clump forming native grass with spiky blades of blue or green. Wispy silvery flowers occur in late summer, followed by a spectacular display of fall color changing from green and orange to deep burgundy. Remains attractive as an architectural feature through winter.
Height2-4 Feet |
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Spread2-3 Feet |
Bloom Color
WheatUSDA Hardiness Zone 3-8
Interesting Notes
Native grasses are the larval food plants of the Leonard's Skipper (Hesperia leonardus ), both Andropogon gerardii, and A.scoparius with needlegrass (Stipa spp.) and dropseed (Sporobolis heterolepsis) (Swengel, 1993) as well as Panicum virgatum, Eragrostis alba, and Agrostis spp. (Opler and Krizek, 1984). The larvae pupate in early August probably amid plant debris like other Hesperia species (Opler and Krizek, 1984; Schweitzer, 1985). Wisconsin DNR
Growing and Maintenance Tips
S. scoparium can be found in dry fields, prairies and woods from Maine to Alberta and Idaho, south to Florida and Arizona. Tolerant of a wide range of soils, but will not grow well in moist, fertile soils. Propagate by seed or division in spring. Self seeds,though not prolifically. Cut to the ground in spring before new growth emerges. Best utilized as a vertical accent in perennial borders or as a screen.
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