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Genus Andropogon (Bluestem, Beard grass)

Andropogon Andropogon scoparius (Schizachyrium scoparium) Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais
an-dro-PO-gon Common Name: Bluestem, Beard grass
Andropogon grasses originated in the grasslands of tropical and temperate regions. They are rhizomatous and clump forming with erect, linear, flat leaves, subtle flowers, and strong structure.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Essential to prairie restoration. Andropogon gerardii is a species with three seasons of ornamental interest and low maintenance requirements.
 Care: Grow in light, fertile, well-drained, sandy soils in full sun. Cut back to the ground in early spring.
 Propagation: Divide plants from midspring to early summer.
 Problems: Infrequent.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Andropogon

Andropogon gerardii 'Pawnee' Andropogon gerardii 'Pawnee'
(Big bluestem, turkeyfoot) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

'Pawnee' has an upright habit and warm fall colors that persist into winter. This refined offbig bluestem has the bluish purple stems typical of the genus. In late summer, Purplish red flowers appear in groups of three or six, which look like a turkey foot—hence the nickname: "Turkey Foot Grass." The root system that can extend down more than 10 feet. Each year, a third of these roots die, opening up channels for water.