Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium

Little Bluestem is a pretty grass that turns a beautiful reddish color in the fall! It’s perfect for gardens and natural areas.

Habitat: Prairies and grasslands

Appearance

The Little Bluestem has slender, blue-green stems that transform into fiery shades of orange, bronze, and deep red in the fall and winter. Its upright clumps are topped with delicate, fluffy seed heads that shimmer in the sunlight.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderPoalesFamilyPoaceaeGenusSchizachyrium

Little Bluestem

Interesting facts

Its tough stems remain standing, even in heavy winter snows.

Little Bluestem is a vital part of healthy tallgrass prairie ecosystems.

Many small birds rely on its seeds for food during colder months.

This grass gets its name from the bluish tint of its stems!

Special abilities

Little Bluestem has extremely deep roots that help it find water during droughts and prevent soil erosion.

Little Bluestem can change its appearance dramatically, from blue-green in summer to brilliant red in fall, providing seasonal beauty.

Little Bluestem has a strong ability to grow in poor soils and disturbed areas, helping new ecosystems establish.

Measurements & details

Height: 60-150 cm
Spread: 30-60 cm
Bloom Season: Late summer to fall
Is Edible: No
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

eaten by

American Bison

Bison bison

A favorite food for grazing bison.

shelters

Greater Prairie-Chicken

Tympanuchus cupido

Provides nesting cover and protection.

eaten by

White-tailed Deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Deer browse on its tender shoots.

eaten by

Grasshopper Sparrow

Ammodramus savannarum

Feeds on its small, nutritious seeds.

Traits

Shade Tolerant

Discover plants that love to live in the shadows, growing beautifully and happily even in spots where the sun doesn't shine all day long.

Drought Tolerant

These clever plants are superstars at saving water, thriving even when it's dry and sunny with very little rain. They're nature's resourceful friends!

Fall Color

Witness the breathtaking transformation as leaves change from green to brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold before they fall. It's a spectacular natural art show!