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Description
Sorghastrum Secundum, commonly known as big bluestem, is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the family Poaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It has blue-green foliage and produces fluffy seed heads in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Sorghastrum |
Appearance
Big bluestem has blue-green foliage that turns reddish-brown in the fall. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It has a dense, clumping growth habit and produces fluffy seed heads in late summer and early fall. The seed heads are about 6-8 inches long and have a bluish-purple color. The plant has a deep root system that makes it drought-tolerant and ideal for erosion control.
Care Guide
Big bluestem is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. After that, the plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Big bluestem is not susceptible to many pests or diseases, but it can be affected by rust, leaf spot, and smut. These diseases are usually not serious and can be controlled with fungicides. The plant can also be affected by spider mites, but they are not usually a problem. If spider mites are present, they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Big bluestem is native to North America and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It is a warm-season grass that is well-adapted to hot, dry conditions. The plant has a deep root system that makes it drought-tolerant and ideal for erosion control. It is an important food source for wildlife, including deer, elk, and pronghorns.
Question and Answer
Q: Is big bluestem a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, big bluestem has a deep root system that makes it ideal for erosion control.
Q: How tall does big bluestem grow?
A: Big bluestem can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for big bluestem?
A: Big bluestem prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for big bluestem?
A: Big bluestem is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Sorghastrum nutans
- Panicum virgatum
- Sporobolus heterolepis
References
- USDA Plants Database: Sorghastrum Secundum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Sorghastrum Secundum
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Big Bluestem
