Big Bluestem - Andropogon gerardii
Andropogon gerardii, or big bluestem, is a commanding presence in the landscape, with its tall, arching stems and distinctive three-part seed heads resembling a turkey’s foot. Its foliage transitions beautifully through the seasons, from blue-green in spring to rich copper, red, and purple tones in autumn. Historically, this deep-rooted grass has played an essential role in shaping the North American prairie, valued for its resilience and ecological benefits. In garden and prairie plantings, big bluestem serves as a striking structural element, ideal for drifts, matrix plantings, or as a bold focal point. Its towering height and graceful movement create depth and texture, while its ability to withstand drought and thrive in diverse soils makes it a vital species for habitat restoration and naturalistic designs. This grass also provides shelter and food for wildlife, supporting biodiversity throughout the year.
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium-Dry, Dry
Bloom Time: Late Summer
Height: 4-8 ft
Wetland Status: FAC
Host Plant For: Delaware skipper (Anatrytone logan), common wood nymph (Cercyonis pegala)
Andropogon gerardii, or big bluestem, is a commanding presence in the landscape, with its tall, arching stems and distinctive three-part seed heads resembling a turkey’s foot. Its foliage transitions beautifully through the seasons, from blue-green in spring to rich copper, red, and purple tones in autumn. Historically, this deep-rooted grass has played an essential role in shaping the North American prairie, valued for its resilience and ecological benefits. In garden and prairie plantings, big bluestem serves as a striking structural element, ideal for drifts, matrix plantings, or as a bold focal point. Its towering height and graceful movement create depth and texture, while its ability to withstand drought and thrive in diverse soils makes it a vital species for habitat restoration and naturalistic designs. This grass also provides shelter and food for wildlife, supporting biodiversity throughout the year.
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium-Dry, Dry
Bloom Time: Late Summer
Height: 4-8 ft
Wetland Status: FAC
Host Plant For: Delaware skipper (Anatrytone logan), common wood nymph (Cercyonis pegala)
Andropogon gerardii, or big bluestem, is a commanding presence in the landscape, with its tall, arching stems and distinctive three-part seed heads resembling a turkey’s foot. Its foliage transitions beautifully through the seasons, from blue-green in spring to rich copper, red, and purple tones in autumn. Historically, this deep-rooted grass has played an essential role in shaping the North American prairie, valued for its resilience and ecological benefits. In garden and prairie plantings, big bluestem serves as a striking structural element, ideal for drifts, matrix plantings, or as a bold focal point. Its towering height and graceful movement create depth and texture, while its ability to withstand drought and thrive in diverse soils makes it a vital species for habitat restoration and naturalistic designs. This grass also provides shelter and food for wildlife, supporting biodiversity throughout the year.
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium-Dry, Dry
Bloom Time: Late Summer
Height: 4-8 ft
Wetland Status: FAC
Host Plant For: Delaware skipper (Anatrytone logan), common wood nymph (Cercyonis pegala)
