Blue Heaven Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Blue Heaven'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
42 inches
Width
21 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Schizachyrium scoparium is a clump-forming ornamental grass native to North American prairies. It features fine-textured foliage that changes color throughout the seasons. This cultivar is celebrated for its sturdy, upright habit and vibrant blue foliage that turns shades of burgundy, red, and orange in the fall. It is drought tolerant and low-maintenance.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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.
- Space plants 18 inches apart for full coverage.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally in winter for best growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Prune back to 4 inches in late winter for renewal.
Pro Tip
Prefers dry, well-drained soil and full sun for best color and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune in late winter to maintain shape
- Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization
- Don’t cut back foliage in fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Blue Heaven Little Bluestem questions
What zones can Blue Heaven Little Bluestem grow in?
Blue Heaven 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 Blue Heaven Little Bluestem deer resistant?
Yes — Blue Heaven Little Bluestem is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Blue Heaven Little Bluestem bloom?
Blue Heaven Little Bluestem typically blooms in late summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Blue Heaven Little Bluestem need full sun?
Blue Heaven Little Bluestem does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Blue Heaven Little Bluestem drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blue Heaven Little Bluestem handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Schizachyrium to compare
Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Little Bluestem'
Chameleon Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon'
Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'
Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Twilight Zone'
Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium
'Smoke Signal' Little Bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium 'Smoke Signal'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Blue Heaven Little Bluestem with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
