Andropogon gerardii 'Pawnee' (Big bluestem, turkeyfoot)

This vase-shaped indian grass produces golden yellow plumes, giving 'Indian Steel' a refined appearance. Each flower spike has tiny, bright yellow pollen sacs that stand out on the darker seed heads. From early spring to fall, the foliage is metallic blue, mellowing to a copper-tan after the first frost.

'Prairie Fire' is a distinctly red form from this popular species. The foliage emerges blue-green in spring, but by early summer, the leaves begin to turn shades of deep red. It is unique among switchgrasses because most varieties don't peak until late summer. ‘Prairie Fire’ gradually turns butter yellow in late fall and lingers into winter.

This grass is easy to grow and always beautiful. In early summer, slender stems are topped with flowers that produce a crop of jointed seeds. Clumps get large and die out in the center, so division every three or four years is necessary. Autumn frosts turn the leaves shades of red-bronze.

'Hachita' is a vigorous plant with narrow, blue-green leaves that form dense mounds. During summer, the clumps are punctuated by intricate seed heads that resemble eyelashes. This tough, drought-tolerant grass thrives in sand or clay soil with full-sun exposure. It needs good drainage for the best growth. Too much water is often its downfall.