Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Blue Paradise’ (Little Bluestem)

Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Blue Paradise’ is a visually striking cultivar of the native North American Little Bluestem grass, known for its unique coloration and adaptable nature. This ornamental grass is a popular choice for various landscape designs due to its beauty and hardiness.

Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Blue Paradise’: An In-depth Look

‘Blue Paradise’ is distinguished by its vibrant blue foliage with hints of purple, especially noticeable in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. The plant also undergoes a dramatic color change in autumn, displaying shades of burgundy and purple.

Native: This cultivar, like its parent species, is native to North America, flourishing in prairies and open woodlands.

Plant Type and Habit: It is a perennial grass with an upright, clumping growth habit. It adds structure and vertical interest to garden designs.

Size: ‘Blue Paradise’ typically reaches about 3-4 feet in height (90-120 cm) and 2 feet in width (60 cm).

Flowers: The grass produces small, airy flowers, which are less conspicuous than the striking foliage but add a delicate texture. After flowering, small seed heads form, persisting into winter and providing interest in the colder months.

Bloom Time: Flowering occurs in late summer to early fall.

Foliage: The foliage is particularly notable for its unique and vibrant coloration. During the growing season, the leaves exhibit a striking blue hue, often with undertones or highlights of purple, making it a standout in the garden for its cool-toned colors. What makes ‘Blue Paradise’ exceptional is the way its foliage color intensifies in response to cooler temperatures, especially in spring and fall, when the blue and purple tones become more vivid.

As the seasons transition to autumn, the foliage undergoes another dramatic change. The blue and purple shades deepen and are often joined by hues of burgundy and red, creating a stunning display of warm, rich colors. This transformation adds a significant visual interest to the landscape, contrasting beautifully with the more typical autumnal colors of surrounding plants.

The fine, linear leaves of ‘Blue Paradise’ contribute not only color but also texture and movement to garden settings. This dynamic shift in foliage color throughout the seasons is a key characteristic that makes ‘Blue Paradise’ a highly valued cultivar for gardens and landscapes seeking to add a splash of color and seasonal interest.

Uses: Little Bluestem is used for natural landscaping, erosion control on banks and slopes, and as a component in wildflower gardens and prairie restorations. It’s also popular in ornamental gardens for its seasonal color changes. Excellent choice for drought-prone areas, this architectural grass is perfect for beds and borders, rock gardens, and city or cottage gardens.

Hardiness: Little Bluestem is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, showcasing its adaptability to a wide range of climates.

Wildlife: Little Bluestem acts as a larval host to nine skipper species, including the common wood nymph (Cercyonis pegala), Dakota skipper (Hesperia dacotae), Leonard’s skipper (Hesperia leonardus), and more. It also offers overwintering shelter for various insects and wildlife. Female bumblebee queens nest at the base of these grasses for protection until spring emergence. Its seeds are especially attractive to songbirds in the winter.

Toxicity: It is not known to be toxic to humans or pets, making it a safe choice for gardens.

Deer and Rabbit: This grass is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, which tend to avoid it due to its texture and taste.

Drought: Little Bluestem is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-conserving landscapes.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and is well-behaved in garden settings.

Benefits: It is valued for its low maintenance requirements, drought tolerance, and ability to thrive in poor soils. Its ecological benefits include providing habitat and food for wildlife, as well as stabilizing soil.

Little Bluestem Growing Tips

Light: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and color. Can tolerate partial shade but with reduced vigor and color intensity.

Soil: Adapts to a wide range of soil types but thrives best in well-drained soil. Tolerates poor soils and clay. It does not persist in highly fertile soils or moist conditions.

Water: Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system, then reduce frequency.

Fertilizer: Generally does not require fertilization. If needed, apply a light amount of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning: Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain a tidy appearance.

Propagation: Easily propagated by seed in spring or by division in spring or fall. Self-seeds in favorable conditions.

Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free. May occasionally be affected by rust or fungal spots in very humid conditions, but these are rarely serious.