Schizachyrium scoparium aka Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium, or little bluestem, is a perennial grass. It belongs to the grass family, Poaceae. Its native range runs from Canada south to Mexico. It grows in temperate regions across much of North America. Wild plants live in both moist and dry sites. This warm-season grass forms dense clumps with an upright shape. Garden plants reach 2–4 feet (0.6–1.2 metres) tall and wide. RHS gives a smaller range of 1.6–3.3 feet (0.5–1 metre).

The narrow leaves arch out from the base of each clump. Leaves and stems often show blue-green tones in summer. Some stems look green or grey-green instead. In fall, the plant takes on copper, orange, or purple-red tones. The dry leaves keep their warm hues through winter. Fine leaves give the clumps a soft look. Growth proceeds at a moderate rate, while clumps spread slowly. Plants take about two to five years to reach full size.

Small flowers rise above the leaves in slender racemes. Their shades include purple-bronze and silvery red-brown. Sources place flowering from summer into fall, with late-summer blooms prominent. The flowers have less visual impact than the leaves. Bronze-purple seed heads add interest through fall and winter. Songbirds and small mammals eat the seeds. The clumps also give wildlife cover throughout the year. Several skipper butterflies use this grass to feed their larvae. Common wood-nymph larvae also feed on it.

Grow little bluestem in full sun with freely draining soil. It suits dry to moderately moist ground. Established plants withstand drought, heat, humidity, and salt. It accepts poor soil and clay where drainage is good. RHS also lists chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. Soil may be acid, neutral, or alkaline. Sources rate it for USDA zones 3–9 and UK hardiness H6. Cut old leaves and stems down in late winter. Seeds or spring division provide ways to raise new plants. Keep mulch clear of the crown.

Use the grass in borders, meadows, or prairie-style plantings. It also suits containers, gravel gardens, and coastal sites. Groups of plants show the leaf colour and winter seed heads. Cut stems and heads can be dried for arrangements. Deer seldom browse it, and it tolerates harsh urban sites. It also tolerates shallow, rocky ground and helps resist erosion. The cited garden sources report few pest or disease concerns.