Count: 50 seedsThis is probably the most popular native grass of the tallgrass prairie. It is a warm-season grass, so it does not really get going until the summer heat sets in. It grows very tall in fertile soil, and the stems turn a lovely rusty color in the late fall and into winter.
Sometimes known as the "king of the grasses," this species towers over all the other natives of the tallgrass prairie region. In the past, it grew thickly over many miles of prairie and provided an important food source for bison. Its extensive root system makes it a valuable plant for erosion control, as well as being one of the most commonly chosen species for prairie restoration and native landscaping. The genus name "Andropogon" comes from the Greek words for "man's beard," referring to the stiff hairs that develop on the ornamental seed head.Also known as Turkeyfoot, Big Bluestem is a warm-season bunchgrass that grows to seven feet tall. The seedhead divides into narrow branches that resembles a turkey’s foot. This long-lived perennial is a major component of the tallgrass prairie of central North America. It is excellent for erosion control and provides cover and nest sites for wildlife. Does not tolerate excessive grazing. Turns a lovely reddish brown in autumn.MORE INFO:Sowing: Direct sow either in late fall or early spring. Plant the seed just below the surface of the soil, compacting the soil very firmly. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination.Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they become established. Because of their extensive root system, the plants grow rather slowly. This plant grows best in average, well drained soil, though it adapts to nearly any soil type including sand and clay. Though it flourishes in rich soil, it tends to be more upright in poor soil. It tolerates drought well, though watering in extremely dry weather will produce the best growth. This plant self-sows, and resists deer and attracts small birds. It makes an excellent choice for controlling erosion, as well as being ornamental throughout the autumn and winter.Seed Saving: Collect the seed as soon as the seed heads turn color and begin to dry; the seed should strip easily from the stem. Spread the seed out in a protected location until it has dried completely. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.
Sometimes known as the "king of the grasses," this species towers over all the other natives of the tallgrass prairie region. In the past, it grew thickly over many miles of prairie and provided an important food source for bison. Its extensive root system makes it a valuable plant for erosion control, as well as being one of the most commonly chosen species for prairie restoration and native landscaping. The genus name "Andropogon" comes from the Greek words for "man's beard," referring to the stiff hairs that develop on the ornamental seed head.Also known as Turkeyfoot, Big Bluestem is a warm-season bunchgrass that grows to seven feet tall. The seedhead divides into narrow branches that resembles a turkey’s foot. This long-lived perennial is a major component of the tallgrass prairie of central North America. It is excellent for erosion control and provides cover and nest sites for wildlife. Does not tolerate excessive grazing. Turns a lovely reddish brown in autumn.MORE INFO:Sowing: Direct sow either in late fall or early spring. Plant the seed just below the surface of the soil, compacting the soil very firmly. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination.Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they become established. Because of their extensive root system, the plants grow rather slowly. This plant grows best in average, well drained soil, though it adapts to nearly any soil type including sand and clay. Though it flourishes in rich soil, it tends to be more upright in poor soil. It tolerates drought well, though watering in extremely dry weather will produce the best growth. This plant self-sows, and resists deer and attracts small birds. It makes an excellent choice for controlling erosion, as well as being ornamental throughout the autumn and winter.Seed Saving: Collect the seed as soon as the seed heads turn color and begin to dry; the seed should strip easily from the stem. Spread the seed out in a protected location until it has dried completely. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.