Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem)

Appealing in most seasons, Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem) is a warm-season perennial grass forming an upright clump of stems with flattened leaves. Emerging blue-green in spring, the foliage matures to green as the season progress, turning rich orange and coppery-red, sometimes with lavender tints, in the fall. Elegant tall flowering stems rise in late summer above the foliage bearing glossy deep purple, 3-parted, finger-like flower clusters, resembling turkey feet (hence the common name). Perfect for providing height and color to the garden, Big Bluestem is drought tolerant, requires very little care, is virtually disease and pest free, and provides months of interest. This long-lived architectural grass has a variety of uses, including screening, naturalizing, restoring prairies, and nesting materials for birds and mammals.

• Grows in a dense clump up to 4-6 ft. tall (120-180 cm) and 2-3 ft. across (60-90 cm). Freely self-seeds when happy.
• Performs best in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. This plant is not fussy about soils and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including dry soils. Lean to average soils are best, as too much fertility will cause the plants to be more open and weak in habit.
• Excellent choice for drought-prone gardens, this architectural grass is perfect for the back of borders, prairie plantings, or banks and slopes for erosion control.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant but attracts birds and butterflies.
• May be cut back or mowed in late winter (not during the growing season).
• Propagate by seed, root division.
• Native to North America, Mexico.