Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) 'Nonwrr' Purple Arrow is a refined cultivar of the native prairie grass selected for its upright habit and bold fall color. Sturdy vertical stems maintain a narrow, columnar form throughout the growing season and even into winter, creating a strong visual line in garden compositions. In summer, fine-textured blue-green blades sway gracefully in the wind, transitioning to rich shades of purple as autumn arrives. Plant this low-maintenance grass in dry garden beds and borders, prairie and meadow plantings, and matrix-style designs where structure and seasonal change are key. Its tidy growth habit makes it especially useful in smaller spaces or along pathways, and its persistent seed heads add winter interest and wildlife value.
Little Bluestem 'Nonwrr' Purple Arrow
Irrigation Requirement: Low (1/2" every 10-14 days)
Mature Size: 18 - 24" tall and 12 - 24" wide
Spacing: 18 - 24" apart
Season: Warm-season grass
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Unknown
Soils: Adaptable to sandy, loamy, or clay soils as long as they are well-drained
Little Bluestem is one of the best native grasses for roosting and habitat, according to the USDA. It provides habitat for beneficial insects, birds, and small mammals all year. It's seed also provide a winter food source for some bird species.

