Species little bluestem

little bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues'

Little Bluestem is a native, warm season, perennial grass that provides an excellent foliage display and long-lasting interest in the garden. It's attractive blue-green foliage turns golden-bronze in the fall before taking on a purplish-red color in winter. This magnificent grasses grows in a variety of soils, even in areas of drought and poor soils. The flower stalks can reach up to 3 feet tall and its display of little flowers flares in the autumn months. As an ornamental grass, it provides great color to the garden and attracts butterflies and beneficial insects. Little bluestem is easy to maintain and provides excellent erosion control. A perfect addition to any landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Purple-bronze Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Little Bluestem should be watered deeply but infrequently. Water when the soil around the plant is dry to the touch, generally about once a week. Best results are achieved by supplying an inch (2.5 cm) of water at each watering. Keep soil moist during summer months and reduce frequency in the winter months.

sunlight

Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues') is an ornamental grass that grows best in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade, however morning sun is best to ensure its full growth potential. This species needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to remain healthy. Additionally, it should be exposed to at least 8 hours of indirect sunlight, such as dappled or bright shade. Little bluestem should also avoid hot, midday sun during the summer months when temperatures and sunlight intensity are at their highest.

pruning

Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues') should be pruned light to moderate. It should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring, just as new growth is beginning to appear. Avoid pruning in summer and fall, as it can stimulate new growth that is too late to harden off before winter. Start by removing dead stems or those that are overly long, as well as any shoots that are spoiling the overall look of the plant. Also, prune to encourage the plant's natural form, to reduce the overall height and width and to improve air circulation and light penetration. Finally, if needed, seed heads can be removed after flowering as this will help the plant conserve its energy.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Little bluestem typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Little bluestem typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map