The Blues Little Bluestem

The Blues Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues')

The Blues Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues') is a striking warm-season native ornamental grass known for its deep blue-green foliage that intensifies throughout the growing season. This perennial adds texture, color, and seasonal interest to prairie gardens, mixed borders, and naturalistic landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'The Blues' forms dense clumps of slender, upright leaves showcasing rich blue-green hues that deepen into warm copper and red tones in the fall. Its airy flower panicles emerge in late summer, adding softness and movement to garden designs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soils; tolerates poor and dry soils
• Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3�9

Ideal Uses

• Prairie Gardens: Perfect for native and naturalistic landscapes
• Mixed Borders: Adds bold color and vertical texture
• Accent Planting: Creates striking focal points with vibrant foliage
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports pollinators and birds
• Low-Maintenance Gardens: Performs well with minimal care

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water sparingly; drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Cut back old foliage in late winter to early spring
• Fertilizing: Usually not necessary
• Mulching: Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Prefers open, sunny sites with good air circulation

Why Choose The Blues Little Bluestem?

• Deep Blue-Green Foliage: Provides rich, vibrant color throughout the growing season
• Vibrant Fall Colors: Transitions to warm copper and red tones
• Drought Tolerance: Suitable for low-water and sustainable gardens
• Wildlife Friendly: Provides habitat and food for pollinators and birds
• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow with minimal care

Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues' is a colorful, low-maintenance native grass that enhances landscapes with vibrant hues and elegant form.