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Description
Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks, also known as big bluestem, is a native grass species that is commonly found in the Great Plains of North America. It is a warm-season perennial grass that can grow up to 8 feet tall in optimal conditions. The grass has a deep root system that makes it drought-resistant and able to survive in a range of soil types. It is often used for forage and erosion control, and is also a popular ornamental grass.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Andropogon |
Appearance
Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks has blue-green leaves and a reddish-purple stem. The grass can grow up to 8 feet tall and is known for its distinctive three-parted seedheads that resemble turkey feet. The seedheads appear in late summer and turn a tan or brown color in the fall. The grass has a deep root system that makes it a good choice for erosion control. It also has a high tolerance for drought and can survive in a range of soil types.
Care Guide
Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks is a low-maintenance grass that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this grass:- Water: The grass is drought-resistant but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this grass, but a light application of nitrogen in the spring can encourage growth.- Soil: The grass can grow in a range of soil types but prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: The grass prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by leaf spot, rust, and smut. These diseases can be treated with fungicides. The grass may also be susceptible to damage from grasshoppers and other insects.
Habitat
Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks is native to the Great Plains of North America, where it can be found in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. The grass is adapted to a range of soil types and can grow in areas with annual precipitation ranging from 10 to 40 inches.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks a good choice for erosion control?
A: Yes, the grass has a deep root system that makes it a good choice for erosion control.
Q: Does Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks require fertilizer?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for this grass, but a light application of nitrogen in the spring can encourage growth.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks?
A: The grass is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: What are the seedheads of Andropogon Gerardii Blackhawks called?
A: The seedheads are called turkey feet because of their resemblance to the foot of a turkey.
Related Plants
– Andropogon virginicus (Broomsedge bluestem)- Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass)- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little bluestem)
References
– “Andropogon gerardii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d760- “Big Bluestem.” USDA NRCS. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ANGE3- “Andropogon gerardii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ANGE3
