Species

9 other cultivars

grassN. America Native

Twilight Zone Little Bluestem

Q: What zones can Twilight Zone Little Bluestem grow in?

Twilight Zone Little Bluestem is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Q: Is Twilight Zone Little Bluestem deer resistant?

Yes — Twilight Zone Little Bluestem is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Q: When does Twilight Zone Little Bluestem bloom?

Twilight Zone Little Bluestem typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Q: Does Twilight Zone Little Bluestem need full sun?

Twilight Zone Little Bluestem does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Q: Is Twilight Zone Little Bluestem drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Twilight Zone Little Bluestem handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Twilight Zone'

$14.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Schizachyrium scoparium, commonly known as Little Bluestem, is a clump-forming perennial grass characterized by its fine, blue-green foliage that turns striking shades of red and orange in autumn, and its airy, feathery flower plumes.

A distinctive cultivar noted for its iridescent, silvery-mauve foliage that appears in mid-summer. The color deepens to a vibrant violet-purple in the fall, providing multi-season interest. Taller than the species.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides visual interest with its tall, feathery plumes and purple hue, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping and erosion control.

Attracts birds and insects, supporting local pollinators and wildlife.

SpeciesSchizachyrium scopariumLittle Bluestem

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

51 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

New Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$14.95

American Meadows

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays

In Stock$18.65

Plant Delights Nursery

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$24.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
Mist cuttings if propagating via division in spring.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
Cut back dead foliage in late winter for tidy appearance.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry periods 🌱
Prune back in late winter to promote fresh growth
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively in late summer
Avoid disturbing roots during peak growing season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged borderErosion control on slopesDry garden accent

Companion Plants

SedumOrnamental grasses Lavender Russian sage Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions