Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) 'Shining Star' features cream and green variegated foliage that turns to pinks and reds in the fall. This cultivar has a more compact growth habit, prefers dry, poor soils, and will self-sow. Plant in garden beds and borders or natural prairie plantings. Little Bluestem is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.
Little Bluestem 'Shining Star'
Native to Cache County: No
Irrigation Requirement: Low (1/2" every 10-14 days) (preferred), but could be planted in a Very Low (Water to Establish) zone if given a few deep waterings in dry summers.
Mature Size: 15 - 18" tall and 12 - 15" wide
Spacing: 18 - 24" apart
Season: Warm-season grass
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 10
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Moderately
Soils: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils
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.