Big Bluestem has been dubbed the “King of the Grasses”, because it produces a better quality and greater amount of forage than any other native prairie grass in Northern America. The name Big Bluestem originates from the blue color at the base of the stems. It is known for its natural beauty and hearty color in the winter months, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Description
Big Bluestem is a perennial grass which forms large vertical clumps and slowly expands horizontally on scaly rhizomes. Its growth can range from 2-6 ft in height and sends new shoots at its edges while the center dies off. In late summer, the grasses produce a 3 inch flowering stalk with purple seed heads.
Distribution
The grass occurs naturally in the North American continent. Before the western expansion by early settlers, Big Bluestem was most abundant in the vast Great Plains prairies. Currently it is commonly found in open fields and lightly wooded areas at elevations ranging from 2,000-6,000 feet.
Ecology
This natuarl grass has become very adaptive to a wide variaty of environmental conditions. It can tolerate acid or alkiline soils as well as dry, humid, hot or cool temperatures. Big Bluestem also has a hearty root system which completely saturates the top 2 feet of the soil, reaching a depth of 12 feet. The grass is extremely drought and full sun tolerant. It seems the only condition the Big Bluestem doesn’t enjoy is growing in the shade.
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