Description
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), also known as Beardgrass or Andropogon scoparius, is one of the most iconic native prairie grasses in North America. This warm-season, clump-forming perennial grows 2 to 4 feet tall, with slender blue-green foliage that develops rich copper, bronze, red, and crimson tones in fall. Fluffy white seed heads persist into winter, adding texture and seasonal interest long after flowering plants have faded.
Little Bluestem thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils, including sandy, rocky, and poor soils. It is very drought tolerant and can also handle moderate moisture once established. Its extensive root system helps it withstand tough conditions and makes it an excellent choice for erosion control, prairie restoration, and low-maintenance native landscapes.
A staple of both shortgrass and tallgrass prairies, Little Bluestem works well in a variety of habitats. It is often grown alongside Sideoats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) in drier prairies and pairs naturally with Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), Indian Grass (Sorghastrum nutans), and Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in taller prairie plantings. It is also an important component of our Tallgrass Prairie Seed Mix.
Little Bluestem provides valuable habitat for native wildlife throughout the year. It serves as a larval host for several skipper butterflies, including Dusted Skipper, Cobweb Skipper, Ottoe Skipper, Indian Skipper, Swarthy Skipper, and Crossline Skipper. Its seeds provide food for songbirds, while its dense clumps offer nesting and overwintering habitat for insects and birds. Bumblebee queens in particular may nest at its base.
