Lawn Guardian

Little Bluestem Care Guide

Schizachyrium scoparium

ornamental_grassZones 3–9nativedeer resistant

Iconic native prairie grass with blue-green summer foliage turning brilliant mahogany-red in fall. Fluffy white seed heads catch autumn light. A Midwest native classic.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Cut back old growth Late spring

Cut or burn back last year's growth before new shoots emerge. Wait until late spring as it is warm-season.

Summer

No care needed Summer

This tough native prairie grass thrives without supplemental care. Do not fertilize.

Fall

Enjoy fall color October-November

Mahogany-red fall color with fluffy white seed heads is one of the finest native grass displays.

Ecological value

Critical native tallgrass prairie grass. Host plant for several skipper butterfly caterpillars. Seeds eaten by sparrows and juncos. Deep fibrous roots build prairie soil.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns