Description
Product Description
Andropogon virginicus (Broomsedge Bluestem) is a tough, warm-season native bunchgrass valued for its blue-green summer blades that turn glowing copper-gold in fall and straw in winter. Upright clumps add movement and four-season structure, while deep roots anchor soil on slopes and poor sites. Ideal for meadows, naturalized plantings, and restoration projects where low input and high resilience are essential.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Andropogon virginicus |
| Common Name | Broomsedge Bluestem (Broomsedge) |
| Plant Type | Warm-season perennial grass |
| Native/Non-native | Native to North America |
| Hardiness Zone | 5–9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Moisture | Dry to medium; drought tolerant once established |
| Mature Height | 3–5 ft (occasionally to ~6 ft in fertile soils) |
| Mature Spread | 18–30 in clump |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clumping bunchgrass; self-seeds in open ground |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Fragrance | None |
| Bloom Time | Late summer to fall (airy panicles; persistent winter stems) |
| Seasonal Interest | Summer–winter; outstanding fall color |
| Foliage & Features | Blue-green to copper-gold foliage; fine texture; strong vertical lines |
| Landscape Features | Erosion control, drought tolerance, wildlife cover |
| Landscape Uses | Meadows, slopes, naturalized areas, restoration and reclamation |
| Soil | Average to poor, well-drained soils; tolerates sand or clay; avoid rich/wet |
| Water Needs | Low after establishment |
| Maintenance | Low; cut back in late winter/early spring |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Generally deer resistant; few serious pests |
| Container Friendly | Large containers only |
| Recommended Spacing | 18–24 in (45–60 cm) |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Full sun ensures the strongest, most upright habit and best color.
- Soil & Water: Thrives in well-drained, lean soils from sandy to clay; prefers dry to medium moisture. Avoid chronically wet or highly fertile sites.
- Fertility: Do not over-fertilize—excess nutrients can cause flopping and reduce color.
- Planting: Set crowns level with soil; water to establish, then reduce frequency. Mulch lightly the first season if desired.
- Maintenance: Very low. Cut back to 4–6″ in late winter/early spring before new growth. May self-seed in open ground—site accordingly.
Key Features
- Drought-tolerant, deep-rooted native bunchgrass
- Glowing copper-gold fall color and persistent winter structure
- Excellent erosion control for slopes and poor soils
- Strong vertical form for meadows and naturalistic designs
- Provides wildlife cover and seasonal habitat value
Problems
- Few serious issues. Can flop in shade, rich soils, or with excessive water. May self-seed in disturbed ground—thin or deadhead if containment is desired.
Uses in the Landscape
- Prairie/meadow plantings, large borders, and naturalized areas
- Slopes and dry sites for erosion control and low-care cover
- Seasonal backdrops with perennials and wildflowers
- Restoration and reclamation plantings
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, 4″, DP-50 Plug, 50 and 72 Cell
- Recommended Spacing: 18–24″ for upright clumps and airflow.
Why You’ll Love It
- Bold native texture with four-season interest
- Low water needs once established
- Reliable slope and soil stabilizer
- Easy care—cut back once a year and enjoy
Quick Highlights
A drought-tough, architectural native grass with brilliant fall color—Broomsedge Bluestem brings movement, habitat value, and year-round structure to sunny, low-maintenance landscapes.
