Little Blue Stem

Little bluestem is a warm-season grass which starts growth in late spring and stops in early fall. Plants grow most actively during the hot days of summer and are quite drought tolerant once established. It’s native to a large portion of North America and was one of the main components of the tall grass prairie. They are hardy to Zone 3.

Little bluestems upright nature makes it a great compliment to many blooming perennials, such as coneflower, sedum, coreopsis, blanketflower, asters and many more. It’s also a larval food source for a variety of butterflies and moths, including several species of skippers.

To maintain an upright growth habit, little bluestem requires full sun, well-drained soil (clay or sandy) and dry growing conditions (once plants are well established). Loosen heavy or compacted soil before planting to enable better root development of young plants. They perform well in poor soil and keeping soil nitrogen levels low is important to prevent lodging, flopping or the need for staking. Cut back clumps in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.