Schizachyrium scoparium
Little Bluestem
Evergreen-Deciduous | Deciduous |
---|---|
Overall Mature Size | Small |
Also Grown As | Bush |
Mature Height & Spread | 2-3' x 1-2' |
Native To | North America |
Exposure | Full sun |
Water | Medium, Low Water |
Bloom Time | Summer |
Special Features | Drought Resistant, Deer Resistant, Fall Colors |
Container Sizes | #1 |
Natural Growth Habit | Upright |
Plant Type | Shrub |
Sunset Garden Zones | 1-24 |
Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone | 4A-9B |
Moderate-growing perennial grass to 2-3’ tall x 1-2’ wide. This North America native features upright to slightly-arching foliage that varies in color from green to blue in summer, to shades of muted-red and bronze in the cool of fall and winter. Numerous seed-head spikes rise above the grassy foliage in late-summer eventually maturing to a silvery-tone. This species is tough and adaptable, has few known pests or diseases, and is drought-tolerant once well-established, though a more robust specimen is achieved with moderate watering. Prune down to 3-4” in early-spring to promote a healthy new flush of spring foliage. Prefers a well-drained soil and thrives in a full sun exposure. Deer resistant.
USDA Zone: 4A-9B