Schizachyrium scoparium, commonly known as Little Bluestem, is a warm-season perennial grass native to North America. It typically grows in clumps and reaches heights of 2 to 4 feet, with a dense, upright habit. The plant is characterized by narrow, blue-green leaves that turn a striking reddish-bronze in the fall, offering ornamental value throughout the year. The flowering panicles are open and airy, typically ranging in color from pale silver to light purple, and are topped by small, plume-like spikelets.
Little Bluestem thrives in a variety of soil types, including dry, well-drained soils, and is highly tolerant of drought conditions. It is often found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands, preferring full sun to partial shade. As a warm-season grass, it starts growing in late spring and peaks during mid-summer, continuing its growth until the first frost.
This grass species is an important component of native grasslands and provides valuable habitat for wildlife, particularly for bird species like sparrows and quail. Its deep, fibrous root system helps to prevent soil erosion and contributes to soil health. Little Bluestem is commonly used in erosion control, native landscaping, and prairie restoration projects due to its adaptability, drought tolerance, and aesthetic appeal in both natural and cultivated landscapes.
In terms of insect host interactions, Little Bluestem supports the larvae of several species of skipper butterflies, including the Hesperia ottoe (Ottoe Skipper) and Epargyreus clarus (Silver-spotted Skipper). These species feed on the grass's foliage during their larval stages. Additionally, Little Bluestem is a host plant for the Schinia lucens (Bluestem Flower Moth), whose larvae feed on the seeds and stems of the grass.