Andropogon gerardii, Big Bluestem, Native Grasses, Perennial Grass Plugs

Botanic Name (s):    Andropogon gerardii

Common Name(s):      Big Bluestem

Mature height :2-6.5′

Mature spread:2-3ft

Flower Color/ Bloom Time :   June-Sept

Fall Color: Blue / Reddish purple

Sun Exposure:  Full Sun     Part Sun

Soil moisture:    Dry   Average    Moist      Wet

Soil Ph:6-7.5

Soil Type: Clay Soil- High clay content, fine texture

Loamy Soil- mostly silt, sand, some clay

Sandy soil, coarse texture

Native Habitat:      Dry to wet open woods, prairies, swales, shores, dry open areas

Notes:       Clumping form, attractive winter interest

Erosion Control      Four Season Interest

Average Wildlife Value:  Songbirds      Small Mammals

FAC- Occur in wetlands and non-wetlands

Native To Mountain Regions

Native to Piedmont Regions

Andropogon gerardii, Big Bluestem, Native Grasses, Perennial Grass Plugs

The uses and benefits of Big Bluestem include erosion control, forage production, landscaping, grassland restoration, privacy screens, and pollinator conservation. Wildlife benefits include bedding and resting sites, thermal protection, escape cover, avian cover, nesting sites, food, and fawn concealment.

“Big blue” as it is commonly called is a climax prairie species. However, it can tolerate a wide variety of well-drained soils and typically does well on low fertility sites. Big blue is commonly used in erosion control plantings; although it is sometimes slow to get started. Once it has been established, however, it provides excellent stability for sandy areas. This species is also a good native choice for grazing forage and is very palatable to livestock. As with the other bluestems, big blue also provides excellent wildlife habitat. Bobwhite quail and other ground-nesting birds use this clump-forming grass for nesting and forage cover. In the longleaf pine ecosystem, the perennial big bluestem contributes to the fine flashy fuel needed for the maintenance of the ecosystem.

Read More from the USDA:

See all available native Grasses.