Andropogon gerardii (Big Bluestem)

The signature tallgrass prairie species and a proven soil-stabilizing workhorse, big bluestem brings a dramatic late-summer height surge and a distinctive turkey-foot seed head to any large-scale restoration or naturalistic screen planting.

Species Overview

Andropogon gerardii, commonly known as Big Bluestem, is a tall, warm-season perennial grass native to the prairies of North America. Often referred to as the "King of the Prairie," it can grow up to 8 feet tall and features blue-green stems that turn reddish-bronze in fall. The plant produces distinctive, three-parted seed heads resembling a turkey's foot, which appear in late summer. Big Bluestem is a cornerstone species for prairie restoration and soil conservation projects due to its extensive root system, which stabilizes soil and prevents erosion.

Application

• Prairie and tallgrass meadow restoration - a foundational species for the ecosystem
• Soil conservation and erosion control projects, owing to its extensive root system
• Naturalistic screen or accent plantings in mixed native landscapes
• Wildlife habitat plantings - shelter and food for songbirds, larval host for several skipper butterflies
• Forage/pasture component plantings

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wide range - dry to moist, sandy, clay, or shallow soils with low fertility
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A tallgrass prairie species adapted to dry-to-mesic soils; not tolerant of sustained flooding.
• Growth Rate: Rapid - dramatic height increase in late summer
• Plant Type: Graminoid
• Mature Height: 4-8 ft.
• Fall Color: Red, Orange, Purple
• Bloom Color / Period: Purple, Red; August-October
• Wetland Indicator Status: FAC (Facultative) - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region
• Native Range: Occurs from the short grass prairie region to the Atlantic Ocean
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Deer Resistance: Some
• Shade Tolerance: Intolerant - becomes floppy and slow to establish in shade
• Salinity Tolerance: Moderate
• Root Depth: Very Deep (36 in.+)
• Growth Habit: Upright
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports birds

Planting Guidance

• Seeding rate for a solid stand: approximately 1/4 lb. per 1,000 sq. ft., or about 10 lb. per acre.