Prairie Beard Grass Schizachyrium scoparium

Little bluestem is a perennial, ornamental, warm season grass in the Poaceae (grass) family with attractive foliage. It is native to eastern North America and is found naturally in a wide range of moist to dry habitats. The narrow erect clumps may grow to 2 to 4 feet tall with an equal spread.

It performs best in average, dry to medium-moist, well-drained soil in full sun. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions including infertility and clay. Once established, it has excellent drought resistance. It is well-adapted to southern climates as it tolerates high heat, humidity, and salt. Cut it back to the ground in late winter or early spring to promote new, attractive growth, and keep mulch away from the crown. Propagate it by seed. 

The leaves and stems of this grass frequently have a bluish cast in summer, while the fall color is a very warm copper that does not fade throughout winter. Purplish bronze seed heads and yellow-orange leaves make for great fall interest in the landscape. It is highly resistant to browsing by deer. 

As well as providing year-round cover for wildlife, little bluestem is a larval host plant to various butterflies and moths making it a great choice for a pollinator garden. The feathery, fine blue-green leaves are attractive in a mass planting in a rain, cottage, coastal, or low water use garden. They adapt well to container plantings or can be used in borders or meadows. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.

VIDEO: Part of the Native Plant Picks series from the North Carolina Sea Grant led Coastal Landscapes Initiative.