Schizachyrium Standing Ovation
Schizachrium 'Standing Ovation' photo courtesy of Plant Select
Little Bluestem

About This Grass

Schizachyrium is a very hardy native grass that thrives in poor soil and dry conditions where other Ornamental Grasses will not. The lovely bluish tones and smaller size make it easy to work with in a smaller garden. Schizachyrium 'Standing Ovation' is a new variety selected for its very upright habit. The spikey bluish-green stems and leaves change to an interesting display of oranges, reds, yellows, and purplish-browns in the autumn. Little Bluestem provides excellent winter interest before cutting back in early spring to make way for new growth.

  • Height: 91 - 122 cm (36-48 in)
  • Spread: 30 - 38 cm (12-15 in )
  • Cold Hardiness: zone 4
  • Sun or Shade: Sun
  • Bloom Time: late Summer
  • Leaf Colour: blue
  • Bloom Colour: silver
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits
  • Nature Attraction: none

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Schizachyrium scoparium can be found in dry fields, prairies and woods from Maine to Alberta and Idaho, south to Florida and Arizona. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils including dry and poor soil. All of the selected forms of this native exhibit the same toughness and hardiness but with better plant habit. Since it has a very attractive winter habit cut it to the ground in the spring before new growth emerges. Best utilized as a vertical accent in perennial borders or as a screen.

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