Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium

Poaceae

• Washington Native
• Sun-Part Shade
• Size: 3’ tall x 2’ wide
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Evergreen: no
• Flower Color: white/green seed heads (June - Sept)
• Wildlife Value: birds and insects

Little Bluestem is one of North America's most beautiful native grasses, renowned for its spectacular fall and winter color. This warm-season bunchgrass forms upright, fountain-like clumps and thrives in full sun to part sun locations. It is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established and adapts to a wide range of soil types. The compact to medium size makes it versatile for many garden situations, from small residential landscapes to large prairie restorations.

The foliage begins the season as attractive blue-green leaves that form graceful upright clumps, but it is the fall transformation that makes this grass truly spectacular. As autumn approaches, the entire plant turns brilliant shades of orange, red, burgundy, and copper, creating a stunning display that rivals the most colorful deciduous trees. The stems often develop deep red to burgundy tones that contrast beautifully with the colorful foliage. Fluffy white seedheads appear from June through September and persist through winter, catching snow and frost to create magical effects. The winter color is equally impressive, with the foliage turning warm shades of russet, bronze, and tan.

Little Bluestem provides critical resources for wildlife throughout the year. Seeds are consumed by numerous bird species including finches, sparrows, and juncos, particularly during fall and winter. The fluffy white seedheads are especially attractive to birds. The clumps provide excellent winter cover and nesting sites for ground-dwelling birds. The grass supports numerous beneficial insects and serves as a host plant for several skipper butterfly species. Historically, Little Bluestem was a dominant grass in tallgrass prairies, supporting vast ecosystems of plants and animals.

This versatile grass excels in perennial borders, meadow gardens, prairie plantings, and naturalistic landscapes. The spectacular fall and winter color makes it invaluable for four-season interest. Plant in groups or drifts for maximum impact, or use singly as accent plants. Excellent companions include coneflowers, Black-Eyed Susan, asters, goldenrod, and other prairie natives. The warm fall colors combine beautifully with purple and blue late-season flowers. The compact size works well in smaller gardens while still providing substantial visual impact. Consider planting where late afternoon sun can illuminate the colorful fall foliage and fluffy seedheads.