Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is a structural plant with grassy foliage and good fall color. They produce seed structures in summer and fall that are moderately showy. They prefer mesic to dry soil in full sun. They grow to 4 feet tall and are a good choice for sunny banks and slopes. Companion plants include Foxglove Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) and ‘Purple Dome’ New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome').
Maintenance
Cut dead foliage to 4 inches in early spring.
About
Light Requirements
Sun Moisture Requirements
Banks,
Slopes Soil Requirements
Most Soils Height
Short,
Medium Spacing
2 feet Category
Structural Attracts
Birds Illinois Native Plant Status
Yes Bloom Time
August,
September,
October Bloom Color
Red Seasonality
Fall,
Summer,
Winter Sociability
Groups of 5-10 Other Notable Cultivars & Varieties
Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Blue Heaven’, Schizachyrium scoparium ‘The Blues’, Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'