2026 Availability- Expected pickup date is April 27th
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) is one of North America’s iconic native grasses and a striking addition to waterwise landscapes. This warm-season grass forms tall clumps of blue-green blades that sway gracefully through summer before turning rich shades of copper, red, and bronze in the fall. Its distinctive three-pronged seed heads (often described as “turkey feet”) add architectural interest and catch the light beautifully in late season. Beyond its attractive aesthetics, Big Bluestem is a powerhouse for habitat! Its deep roots build soil structure while its foliage and seeds support native insects and provide cover for birds and small wildlife. Use Big Bluestem in drifts or weave through perennial plantings to brings movement, texture, and seasonal color to garden beds and borders, new perennial style plantings, prairie gardens, cottage gardens, or naturalistic plantings.
Photo Credits: Alex Abair and T.Voekler
Big Bluestem
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish) (may require supplemental irrigation for a few growing seasons if summer is dry) or Low (1/2" every 10-14 days)
Mature Size: 5 - 8' tall and 2 - 5' wide (generally stays around 4-6' tall and 2-4' wide)
Spacing: 2-3' apart
Season: Warm-season grass
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Moderately
Soils: Adaptable to sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Will become floppy in overly fertile soils.
Big Bluestem provides seeds, cover, habitat, and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.