Andropogon gerardii Big Bluestem (picture to come)

Big Bluestem

(Picture to come)

     Big bluestem is a perennial bunch grass that forms large clumps which expand slowly on short, scaly rhizomes. It normally grows to 5-7 ft. in height. The habit is fairly upright, and not as arching as some ornamental grasses.  The stems and leaves are blue-green in early summer, developing reddish tinges as they mature. The plants turn a rich copper or orange-brown in autumn and develop an overall reddish or burgundy cast after frost. In late summer, big bluestem produces terminal 3 in. bronze to purplish seed heads that stand above the foliage. The flowering stalk has three finger-like branches that look to some like a turkey's foot.

      Big bluestem is adaptable to a wide range of soils;  porous soils as well as heavier, less well drained soils, even clays. It tolerates acidic or alkaline soils. Adaptable to both humid and dry climates and tolerates cool or hot summers. A healthy clump of big bluestem gradually expands outward and the center tends to die back and needs dividing every few years. Cut to the ground in early spring before new growth begins.