Andropogon gerardii 'Big Bluestem' is a native warm season grass known for its upright form, blue green summer foliage, and dramatic coppery red fall color. Its movement, height, and ecological value have earned it the nickname “King of the Prairie”.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Tolerant of a range of soils including clay, loam, and dry sandy conditions
Watering Needs: Low once established; drought tolerant
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided by deer due to coarse texture
Native Status
This species is native to much of North America, particularly the central and eastern prairies. It plays a vital role in native grassland ecosystems and restoration projects.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Beneficial Insects
- Supports numerous species of native grasshoppers, katydids, and other herbivorous insects that form the base of grassland food chains.
Birds
- Provides fall and winter cover for ground nesting birds, and seeds are eaten by sparrows and other small granivorous species.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow for full mature spread and upright growth habit.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for native meadows, prairie reconstructions, large mixed borders, and wildlife habitat plantings. Its vertical structure provides contrast and winter interest in naturalistic landscapes.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - Adds soft nodding blooms in summer and thrives in similar prairie conditions.
- Rudbeckia triloba (Brown Eyed Susan) - Provides bright long lasting blooms and supports pollinators while blending well with Big Bluestem’s height.
- Liatris pycnostachya (Prairie Blazing Star) - Offers vertical spikes of purple flowers that echo the grass’s form and bloom at similar times.
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - A bright orange milkweed that pairs well with grasses and supports Monarch butterflies.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - A shorter native grass that layers well in the foreground and shares similar cultural needs.