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ANDROPOGON GERARDII / BIG BLUE STEM

ANDROPOGON GERARDII / BIG BLUE STEM

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Regular price $24.95 CAD
Regular price Sale price $24.95 CAD
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Convenient Delivery, Minimum Order $100 and it's on us! Orders less than $100 will be subject to a $15.00 delivery fee.

Conveniently Delivered to Your Doorstep - Minimum Order $100, Delivery Included

  • Appearance: Big bluestem is a warm-season, perennial grass that typically grows between 4 and 8 feet tall. It has upright, sturdy stems that are often bluish-gray in color. The grass forms dense clumps and produces narrow leaves that can range in color from green to reddish-purple. At the top of the stems, big bluestem forms distinctive three-parted seedheads with hair-like bristles.

  • Habitat and Range: Big bluestem is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It is well-adapted to the central and eastern parts of the United States, where it is a dominant grass species in tallgrass prairies. Big bluestem has a deep root system that helps it withstand drought conditions.

  • Ecological Importance: Big bluestem is ecologically important for several reasons. Its deep root system improves soil structure, enhances water infiltration, and prevents erosion. The grass provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife species, including birds, mammals, and insects. It also serves as a host plant for butterfly larvae and provides cover for nesting birds.

  • Forage and Livestock Use: Big bluestem is a valuable forage grass for livestock grazing. It has good nutritional value and is palatable for cattle, horses, and other grazing animals. The grass provides both food and cover in managed grazing systems, contributing to overall ecosystem health and productivity.

  • Ornamental Use: Big bluestem is appreciated for its ornamental qualities and is often planted in native and prairie-style gardens. Its tall, upright growth habit and attractive seedheads add texture and visual interest to landscapes. The grass can be used as a focal point, a backdrop for other plants, or as part of naturalized areas.

  • Big bluestem, with its tall stature, ecological benefits, and ornamental value, is a significant grass species in North American grasslands and an excellent choice for natural landscapes and prairie restoration projects.
  • SPREAD 60-100 CM 
  • HEIGHT 150-200 CM 
  • PLANT ZONE 3
  • NATIVE TO ONTARIO

Care Instructions

Different plants have different watering needs. Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, water the plant until the water drains from the bottom of the pot. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

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