Protected Series:
Zone: 4BIG BLUESTEM
Andropogon gerardii, commonly known as Big Bluestem, is the iconic "monarch of the prairies" and a cornerstone of the North American tallgrass ecosystem. This warm-season grass is renowned for its impressive stature, typically reaching heights of 4 to 5 feet, and its deep, extensive root system that makes it a champion of soil stabilization and drought resistance. In spring, the stems emerge with a distinct blue-green hue, transitioning into shades of reddish-bronze and lavender as autumn approaches. Its most defining feature is the three-pronged seed head, famously resembling a turkey's foot, which provides essential late-season forage and habitat for native birds and pollinators.
Big Bluestem is an incredibly resilient "plant-it-and-forget-it" species that thrives in full sun and a wide range of soil conditions, from heavy clay to dry sand. While it is highly adaptable, it prefers well-drained soil and may lose its sturdy upright habit if grown in overly shaded areas or excessively rich, pampered garden beds. Once the deep roots are established, the plant is virtually indestructible against heat and drought. Maintenance is limited to a single task: cutting the stalks back to near ground level in late winter or very early spring. This clears the way for new growth and prevents the clump from becoming overly cluttered with dead material from the previous year.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
| ANDROPOGON GERARDII | con 2 | 101 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Any current Availability will be listed above this line. This item will not be in the cart if there is no Galena stock listed here.
Click for Availability column information and meaning
KEY:
con = containers - available now
Galena (Ready to Go!) Plants that are above ground and available now
Additional (More Plants!) Plants are not in Galena, but in a remote location which is easily accessible. Call your rep for info. They will not be in the Shop.
Dig (In-Ground Field) Plants are still in the ground. Please call your sales rep to place a Dig Order. They will not be in the Shop.
Soon (Coming Soon) Plants are not quite ready but coming soon. Call your rep to inquire. They will not be in the Shop.
(BBnPOT - formerly known as GRSTART - are B&B put into a container - they are available now)
Available cultivars in this genus:
