The Blues little bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues'
USDA zones3 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 4 feet tallup to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Purple-bronze
- Fall color
- Yes
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
'The Blues' little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues') is a grass for borders, meadows, rain gardens, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to moist soil of most types. It forms a clumping mound that turns a rich color in fall. Butterflies, bees, and birds visit it, and it tolerates drought. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits.
Pairs well with Goldsturm black-eyed Susan, Spotted joe-pye weed, and New Jersey tea.