Standing Ovation little bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'
Perennial Plant of the Year 2022
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 4 feet tallup to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Grass/grass-like
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Purplish bronze
- Foliage color
- Gray-green
- Fall color
- Yes
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
'Standing Ovation' little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation') is a grass for borders, meadows, pollinator gardens, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and dry to moist soil of most types. The seed tufts turn fuzzy white and feed small birds in winter. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits. It reseeds readily, so give it room.
Pairs well with Lanceleaf coreopsis, Spotted joe-pye weed, and New Jersey tea.