Bluestem, Little

Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

Little Bluestem is a native warm-season grass known for its striking blue-green summer color that transitions to a rich bronze in the fall. It plays a vital role in grassland ecosystems, providing food and habitat for wildlife while also helping prevent erosion. Its adaptability to poor soils makes it a resilient choice for sustainable landscapes.

Key Characteristics:

• Vital Food Source for Birds and Small Mammals
  In the fall and winter, Little Bluestem produces seeds that are an essential food source for songbirds like the Field Sparrow and small mammals such as voles and mice.

• Host Plant for Native Skippers and Butterflies
  Little Bluestem serves as a larval host plant for several butterfly and skipper species, including the Cobweb Skipper and Dusted Skipper. This makes it a key player in supporting biodiversity in native grassland habitats.

• Erosion Control and Soil Stabilization
  With its deep, fibrous root system, Little Bluestem excels at preventing soil erosion, making it ideal for meadow plantings, streambank restoration, and prairies. It also thrives in poor, rocky soils, helping to restore degraded landscapes.

• Wildlife Shelter and Overwintering Habitat
  The grass's tall, sturdy stems remain upright through the winter, offering valuable shelter for insects and ground-nesting birds. Its clump-forming habit also provides cover for small wildlife.

• Ornamental Value for Naturalistic Gardens
  Little Bluestem's beautiful seasonal colors and upright form make it a standout in ornamental native plantings. Its drought tolerance makes it a great fit for low-maintenance, dry soil gardens.

Product Details:

• Native range: North America
• Life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Dry to medium, well-drained soils
• Mature height: 2-4 feet
• Bloom time: Late summer to fall
• Bloom color: Reddish-bronze
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3-9

Little Bluestem is a versatile grass that supports wildlife, stabilizes soil, and brings dynamic color to any landscape. It thrives in native meadows, prairies, or pollinator gardens.