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Pitchfork Bluestem

Andropogon bicornis, Poaceae

Zones
8–11
Layer
Herbaceous
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Moderate

Guild Roles

Mulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)

Water

Moderate (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Sprucetop GramaBouteloua chondrosioides
Pollinator SharingPest Deterrent
Drooping BulrushScirpus pendulus
Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat
Elliott's LovegrassEragrostis elliottii
Wind ProtectionBeneficial Insect HabitatNurse Plant

Antagonistic Plants

Chalky BluestemAndropogon capillipes

Related bluestem species compete for similar resources and may have cross-allelopathic effects

Yellow BluestemBothriochloa ischaemum

Native bluestem competes with invasive yellow bluestem, which produces inhibitory compounds

Woolly Three-awnAristida lanosa

Both species compete for limited water and nutrients in arid grassland environments

Uses

Functions

Erosion ControlBiomass ProductionWildlife HabitatFire Break

Common Questions

What zones does Pitchfork Bluestem grow in?

Pitchfork Bluestem grows in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Pitchfork Bluestem?

Good companions for Pitchfork Bluestem include Sprucetop Grama, Drooping Bulrush, Elliott's Lovegrass.

Design guilds with Pitchfork Bluestem and see companion relationships visually.

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