Big Bluestem Grass, Andropogon gerardii

Big bluestem is a native, perennial warm-season bunchgrass. It can grow 6-8 feet tall, generally shorter in the northern range, and taller in the southern. Seed heads consist of 2-6 (usually 3) blooming racemes resembling a turkey foot. Flowering can range from July-October.

The fluffy seeds are oblong, less than 0.25 inches long. It does well in full sun or partial shade. Big bluestem grows best in moist, well-drained sandy and clay loam soils. Big bluestem is an important food source for many wild birds and animals.