Big Bluestem
Big Bluestem
–
Andropogon gerardii
Big Bluestem, Turkey Foot
2
–
3 feet
2
–
3 feet
Eastern North America, from the Atlantic coast west to Arizona, Montana, Saskatchewan
Central Texas
Texas
Full Sun
Low
Flowering
Rain Garden
Birds
Previous
Next
About This Plant
Full sun or part shade; a majestic perennial, and one of the “big four” prairie grasses of the Texas savanna. Leaves and stems exhibit a range of colors: green, blue, red and purple, all on the same plant. Bunches of leaves grow up to 3 feet tall, with seed-heads up to 6 feet.
Big bluestem makes a nice accent or specimen in the native landscape. It may be hard to find in nurseries, but live roots can be ordered on-line. It’s an excellent choice for rain gardens.
Maintenance
Big bluestem requires little maintenance once established. Cut back old leaves when the plant is dormant in winter. If the plant outgrows your design, the clumps can be divided and distributed to other areas of the yard (or to friends who will thank you!)
Features
Plant Type:
Grasses
Size:
2-3' H, 2-3' W
Sunlight Requirements:
Full Sun
Soil Types:
Clay, Sandy
Wildlife:
Birds, Butterfly Larvae
Flower Color:
Purple
Bloom Time:
August, September, October
Freeze Hardy:
Yes
Invasive:
No
Caution:
None
Coupon Eligible:
No
This plant goes well with
- List Item #1
- List Item #2
- List Item #3
Recent Posts
