grass

The Blues Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Schizachyrium scoparium 'The Blues' is a clump-forming ornamental grass known for its upright habit, fine-textured blue-green foliage, and airy, plume-like flower panicles that turn a soft pinkish hue in late summer. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking silvery-blue foliage that provides excellent color contrast and movement in the landscape, with good drought tolerance and seasonal interest.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds texture and movement to gardens, especially in prairie and coastal styles.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable landscapes.

Supports local insect populations and provides habitat for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

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Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil and full sun location.
Tuck seeds into soil and water gently to settle.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant seedlings after 6 weeks of growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years for health.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during first growing season 🌱
Prune back in late winter to promote fresh growth
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don't fertilize late in the season
Refrain from cutting back in summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Swaying ornamental grass borderDrought-tolerant meadow areaSilver-foliaged hedge

Companion Plants

Echinacea Purple Coneflower Little Bluestem Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

The Blues Little Bluestem questions

What zones can The Blues Little Bluestem grow in?

The Blues 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 The Blues Little Bluestem deer resistant?

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

When does The Blues Little Bluestem bloom?

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

Does The Blues Little Bluestem need full sun?

The Blues Little Bluestem does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is The Blues Little Bluestem drought tolerant?

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