Description
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) is a warm‑season prairie grass that can reach eight feet tall, sporting deep green stems with a subtle blue‑green tint at the joints in summer. It’s fantastic for erosion control and wildlife habitat—its sturdy seed heads produce plenty of seeds, while the dense foliage gives birds, beneficial insects, and small mammals a safe place to nest and snack.
Native across most of the U.S., it thrives in full sun and adapts to everything from lean, dry soil to richer, watered plots, as long as you give it a bit of moisture and nutrients now and then. Thanks to its spreading rhizomes, it stands up to grazing and foot traffic, though you’ll want to keep an eye on it if you don’t want it taking over.