Andropogon gerardii aka Blue Stem Grass

Andropogon gerardii is a perennial grass in the Poaceae family. Its common names include big bluestem, turkeyfoot, and beard grass. It grows wild across central and eastern North America. Its range reaches from Maine to Saskatchewan, south into Mexico. It grows in prairies, open woods, and other open ground. It is a major grass of the Midwest's tallgrass prairies.

Deep roots support dense clumps with a strong, upright form. Garden plants reach about 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 m) tall and wide. RHS gives a maturity period of two to five years. Narrow, blue-green leaves reach about 1 foot (0.3 m) long. The foliage and stems have a blue cast. Both turn reddish-purple as autumn comes. The plant sheds its leaves rather than staying green year-round.

Flower stems rise to about 6.6 feet (2 m). Purple to red-purple spikelets form clusters near their tips. The clusters reach about 0.33 feet (0.1 m) long. Their three to five branches give them a turkey-foot shape. Chicago Botanic Garden records flowers in July and August. RHS places the flower display in autumn. These sources describe a summer-to-autumn display, with timing varying by location. The grass also draws birds to the garden.

Grow big bluestem in full sun with good drainage. RHS favors light soil, with sand as the best choice. It also lists loam and chalk as suitable soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit this grass. It tolerates drought, but too much winter wet causes problems. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 4–9. RHS rates its hardiness as H6. Cut old stems to ground level before spring growth starts. Sow seed in a cold frame during spring. Divide clumps from mid-spring through early summer. RHS reports few problems with pests or disease.

Use this grass in prairie beds, borders, or natural plantings. Its deep roots make it useful for holding soil. It also suits gravel gardens and coastal planting schemes. Habitat projects use it to restore grassland and support wildlife. Farmers grow it as forage and cut it for hay. Plants For A Future notes some potential to become weedy. That source lists no known human food uses or hazards. This does not establish safety for every person or pet. It records traditional root remedies for stomach pain and gas. It also records leaf washes for fever and weakness. These are reported uses, not proof of medical benefit.