Schizachyrium scoparium 'Prairie Blues'
Prairie Blues Little Bluestem
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Prairie Blues Little Bluestem is an outstanding choice for ecological landscaping and sites with poor soil, low water, and full sun. In addition, it is valued for its enduring blue-gray foliage, fall color, and low-maintenance properties. Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Prairie Blues’ creates beautiful color blocks when planted in large sweeps and masses, and it tucks in nicely among flowering perennials and groundcovers. Like the species, this Schizachyrium scoparium cultivar produces downy white seeds in September providing contrast to its great fall color. It is a fresh plant for formal and informal landscapes. Leave it standing in winter and cut back in spring before new growth appears. ‘Prairie Blues’ is a seed selection of native grass, Little Bluestem.
Zone
3-9
Growth Cycle
Warm
Features
- Native to North America
- Our Favorites
- Notable Fall Color
- Drought Tolerant
- Erosion control
- Green Roofs
- Meadow/Prairie Plantings
GROWER INFO & TIPS
- Growth rate: medium
- Grow in 1 or 2 gallon (could work in larger containers, but would take longer to fill out)
- Grow in well-drained soil
- Water needs: keep moist, but on the drier side
- Fertilizing: use a slow release, low-medium rate fertilizer
- Possible pests: aphids, leaf spot, spidermites, spittlebugs
- Overwintering: cold frame with clear poly, keep dry (do not overwater)
- Avoid over watering and over fertilizing. This can cause flopping and weak tissues that can lead to disease.
*Note: please adapt these suggestions as needed to accommodate your local conditions.
LANDSCAPING INFO
- Colorful cultivar of a native prairie grass
- Great candidate for ecological landscaping
- Requires no fertilizer (prefers poor soil)
- Big visual impact when planted in masses
- A strong, upright grower, but can produce lax growth in rich soils, shade, or irrigated sites
- Fine foliage adds texture and interest
- Very low maintenance
