Schizachyrium 'Blaze' is a vibrant cultivar of Little Bluestem selected for its intense fall color ranging from bright red to deep burgundy. It retains the drought tolerance and upright form of the species while offering enhanced ornamental appeal.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Dry to medium, well drained soils
Watering Needs: Low
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
Cultivated variety of the native species Schizachyrium scoparium, bred for its bold autumn color.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Supports butterfly species such as Dusted Skipper and Leonard’s Skipper during larval stages.
Birds
- Provides shelter and seeds for songbirds including goldfinches and sparrows.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to showcase upright color and allow for full fall display.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for sunny perennial beds, prairie gardens, and naturalized slopes where vibrant fall color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Adds vivid orange blooms and is drought tolerant.
- Coreopsis lanceolata (Lanceleaf Coreopsis) - Offers long blooming yellow flowers and low maintenance performance.
- Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) - Provides warm toned blooms and pollinator appeal.
- Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm) - Brings architectural structure and attracts bees and butterflies.
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (Narrowleaf Mountain Mint) - Adds fine texture and minty scent in mixed native beds.