grass

'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Smoke Signal'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Smoke Signal' is a clump-forming, ornamental grass characterized by its upright, fine-textured foliage that turns vibrant shades of red and orange in autumn, complemented by airy, plume-like flower heads. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking reddish-bronze foliage that provides dramatic color contrast throughout the growing season, especially in late summer and fall.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides airy, silvery-purple foliage that adds texture and late-season interest to gardens.

Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established, ideal for xeriscaping.

Attracts native birds and insects, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Provide full sun for optimal growth.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
Cut back to 3 inches in late winter for fresh growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
Divide in early spring or fall
Cut back in late winter for tidy appearance

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Neglect dividing and pruning

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

Silvery ornamental grass borderDrought-tolerant meadow plantLate-season garden accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Sedum spp. Lavandula angustifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem questions

What zones can 'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem grow in?

'Smoke Signal' 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.

Is 'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem deer resistant?

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

When does 'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem bloom?

'Smoke Signal' 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.

Does 'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem need full sun?

'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is 'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem drought tolerant?

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