Schizachyrium scoparium 'Jazz' is a compact cultivar of little bluestem prized for its strong upright habit and striking blue green foliage that turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and purple in fall. Bred for shorter stature and improved resilience in landscapes, 'Jazz' brings seasonal interest, erosion control, and native habitat value to dry sunny planting schemes.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers dry to medium, well drained soils; tolerates poor or rocky soil
Watering Needs: Low once established; thrives in drought conditions
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer due to coarse foliage and tough stems
Native Status
Schizachyrium scoparium is native to most of North America and plays a vital role in prairie and meadow ecosystems. 'Jazz' is a cultivated variety bred for landscape adaptability while retaining its ecological function.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Serves as a larval host plant for skipper species such as the Ottoe Skipper and the Leonard’s Skipper.
Birds
- Seeds provide fall and winter food for finches, sparrows, and juncos; dense clumps offer nesting and cover for ground dwelling species.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports beneficial predatory insects that overwinter in the dried stems and leaf bases aiding in natural pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to accommodate mature clumps and maintain airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for sunny borders, erosion control on slopes, or meadow plantings. Pairs well with other drought tolerant natives and adds strong vertical texture to gardens.
Companion Plants
- Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm) - Spotted flowers and aromatic foliage add pollinator value and visual diversity.
- Allium cernuum (Nodding Onion) - Nodding pink flower heads rise above grassy foliage and bloom in sync with little bluestem.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Bright yellow blooms provide low mounding color at the base of the upright grass.
- Salvia azurea (Blue Sage) - Tall blue spikes harmonize with fall toned foliage and attract pollinators.
- Echinacea pallida - Pale pink reflexed petals contrast nicely against the grass's fine texture.