Andropogon gerardii

Big bluestem Description:

Andropogon gerardii, commonly known as big bluestem, is a warm-season, perennial grass native to the tallgrass prairies of North America. It is a clump-forming grass that typically grows between 4 and 7 feet tall, although in some cases it can grow as tall as 10 feet.

The grass has characteristic blue-green leaves with a distinctive reddish-purple base, and its stem is also reddish-purple in color. It produces flowers in late summer, which are purplish in color and form into distinctive three-parted seed heads.

Big bluestem is a highly adaptable grass that can grow in a range of soil types and moisture levels, although it prefers well-drained soils with moderate moisture. It is an important component of grassland ecosystems, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species, as well as being an excellent forage grass for livestock.

In addition to its ecological importance, Andropogon gerardii is also used in landscaping and restoration projects, as it is a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance grass with ornamental value. It has also been studied for its potential as a biofuel crop due to its high biomass production and nutrient content.

Native Range:

Big bluestem is native to most of the continental United States with the exception of the far Western States including California, Oregon, and Washington.

Standard Plant Information:

Plant height: 4' - 7'

Fruiting time: July - August

Preferred habitat: Does well in part shade to full sun in average to dry soil. Often found plains, prairies, and open woods.

Sowing:

For most homeowners, the best option is to scatter seed on the ground by hand broadcasting at a minimum of 15-16 pls lbs per acre. For even coverage, we recommend that you broadcast seed in perpendicular rows across the site to ensure even coverage.

Planting:

Simply dig a hole in the soil slightly larger than the plant’s roots. Ensure that the soil line of the plant is maintained during the transfer (i.e. the plant should be at the same level with the ground as it was in the pot). Pack any loose dirt back around the plant and make sure you water it well the same day to ensure it has the best chance of survival.