Grass, Schizacharium Scoparium 'The Blues'

The Blues Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium ‘The Blues’ is a warm-season native ornamental grass valued for its strong upright habit and striking blue foliage. Narrow blue-green leaves emerge in spring, intensify to steel-blue through summer, and transition to shades of orange, red, and purple in fall, while delicate, airy seed heads appear in late summer and persist into winter for added texture and seasonal interest. Its durable nature and color changes make it a standout in naturalistic plantings.

Type: Perennial ornamental grass

Mature Size:
Width: 2–3 ft
Height: 3–4 ft (to 4–5 ft in flower)
(10-year size: forms expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 3a–9b
Form: Upright, narrow, clump-forming
Light: Full sun (best color and structure)
Soil: Well-drained soils; prefers dry to average conditions
Water: Low; very drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides cover; supports native insects and birds


Features & Landscape Uses


Blue summer foliage with excellent fall color



Strong vertical accent for structure



Native grass for prairie and naturalized plantings



Great for massing and low-maintenance landscapes




Care
Cut back to the ground in late winter before new growth begins. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overly rich or wet soils, which can cause flopping. Very drought tolerant once established. Divide every few years if needed.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass

Height

3-4'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

3–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Summer

Flower color

Dark Pink

Fall color

Blue Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Average, Clay, Well Drained

Landscape use

Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Clump, Narrow Upright

Drought tolerant

No