Carousel Little Bluestem
Carousel Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Carousel')
Carousel Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Carousel') is a striking warm-season native ornamental grass known for its vibrant variegated foliage featuring blue-green leaves striped with creamy white margins. This perennial adds unique color, texture, and seasonal interest to prairie gardens, mixed borders, and naturalistic landscapes.
Distinctive Features
'Carousel' forms dense clumps of upright, slender leaves with eye-catching blue-green and creamy white variegation. In fall, the foliage transitions to warm shades of copper and orange, complemented by airy flower panicles that add softness and movement.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- 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 unique variegated color and texture
- Accent Planting: Creates eye-catching focal points with variegated 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: Typically not necessary
- Mulching: Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
- Protection: Prefers open, sunny sites with good air circulation
Why Choose Carousel Little Bluestem?
- Unique Variegated Foliage: Blue-green leaves with creamy white stripes
- Vibrant Fall Color: Turns warm copper and orange shades in autumn
- Drought Tolerance: Ideal 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 'Carousel' is a distinctive, low-maintenance native grass that enhances landscapes with colorful variegation and graceful form.
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