Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)
Big Bluestem is definitely a statement plant! It can reach 7 feet tall and can be a great accent plant. It can be vigorous, so small gardens beware. It is a prairie staple providing habitat for many insects, small mammals, and birds. Plus, it is the host plant for 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the Dusted Skipper, which is listed as of special concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu) and the Cobweb Skipper, which is a species of concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/).
Big Bluestem is definitely a statement plant! It can reach 7 feet tall and can be a great accent plant. It can be vigorous, so small gardens beware. It is a prairie staple providing habitat for many insects, small mammals, and birds. Plus, it is the host plant for 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the Dusted Skipper, which is listed as of special concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu) and the Cobweb Skipper, which is a species of concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/).
Big Bluestem is definitely a statement plant! It can reach 7 feet tall and can be a great accent plant. It can be vigorous, so small gardens beware. It is a prairie staple providing habitat for many insects, small mammals, and birds. Plus, it is the host plant for 13 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org), including the Dusted Skipper, which is listed as of special concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu) and the Cobweb Skipper, which is a species of concern (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/).
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full-Partial
Soil Moisture: Medium/wet-Dry
Height: 7 feet
Plant Spacing: 2-3 feet
Bloom Time: June - September
Advantages: Bird Favorite, Deer Resistant, Recommended, but can be vigorous
Host Plant: 13 species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
Beneficial for Endangered or Threatened Species: It is a host plant for the vulnerable Dusted skipper (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/), Cobweb Skipper (Hesperia metea) (mnfi.anr.msu.edu/)
