Description

Big Bluestem is a tall, hardy perennial grass species native to North America. It is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. This grass reaches an average height of 1.8 meters (6 feet), unlike Little Bluestem, which only grows to 1.2 meters (4 feet).

The distinctive characteristic of Big Bluestem Grass is its blue-green color, from which it gets its name. The leaves are long, narrow, and flat, with rough edges that can cause irritation upon contact. The grass blades are typically about 2 to 3 cm (1 to 1 inch) wide and can reach 60 cm (24 inches) in length.

Big Bluestem has an upright, clump-forming structure. It has a dense habit, with numerous stems emerging from a central crown. These stems are sturdy and rigid, providing excellent support for the plant even in windy conditions. The stems are also hollow, allowing for efficient transport of nutrients and water within the plant.

It is a warm-season grass that grows actively during the summer months when temperatures are high. It goes dormant during the winter, when its growth slows considerably. This growth pattern allows the grass to adapt to seasonal changes and survive in diverse environments.

Big Bluestem is known for its adaptability to different soil types. It can grow in a wide range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it thrives best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter.

I combine it with cup plant (Silphium perfoliata) and gamagrass to create a palatable forage mixture for silage.