Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem)

Native warm-season grass • Four-season interest • Low maintenance

Little Bluestem is a clump-forming prairie grass with blue-green summer foliage that shifts to copper-orange tones in fall and winter. It thrives in dry, sunny locations and supports countless pollinators, beneficial insects, and overwintering wildlife habitat.

 Light

• Full sun
  
  

• Minimum 6+ hours
  
  

• Tolerates heat extremely well
  
  

Shade causes flop and poor color.

 Water

• Extremely drought tolerant
  
  

• Very low water needs once established
  
  

• Avoid wet, poorly drained soil
  
  

 Soil

• Prefers well-drained soils
  
  

• Thrives in sandy, rocky, or lean native soil
  
  

• Tolerates clay if not waterlogged
  
  

This is a dryland prairie species.

Hardiness

• USDA Zones 3–9
  
  

• Heat and cold tolerant
  
  

• Excellent Southeastern performer
  
  

 Seasonal Interest

• Blue-green summer foliage
  
  

• Bronze-orange fall color
  
  

• Copper winter form
  
  

• Beautiful movement in wind
  
  

• Excellent winter habitat
  
  

Wildlife Value

Provides structure and cover for:

• native insects
  
  

• beneficial predators
  
  

• nesting habitat
  
  

• overwintering species
  
  

Seed and structure valuable into winter.

Growth Habit

• Upright, fine-textured clumps
  
  

• 2–4 ft tall
  
  

• Stays vertical in wind
  
  

• Beautiful in mass plantings
  
  

Planting Notes

Depth: crown level
Spacing: 18–24 inches

Avoid heavy mulch; prefers lean, open soil.

Landscape Uses

• Prairie plantings
  
  

• Dry slopes
  
  

• Meadow gardens
  
  

• Water-wise designs
  
  

• Native pollinator gardens
  
  

• Modern & minimalist designs
  
  

• Naturalistic meadowscapes
  
  

Little Bluestem anchors dry native gardens beautifully.

Native Value

This is a keystone prairie species. Supports dozens of native insects and forms essential habitat. Tremendous ecological value for Southeastern restoration and xeric natives.

⚠ Common Problems

Flopping

Too much shade or rich soil.

Weak color

Needs full sun and lean soil.

Rotting

Wet clay or poorly drained conditions.