Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii, Poaceae

Zones

3–9

Layer

Herbaceous

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Moderate

Guild Roles

Mulch MakerBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)

Water

LowLow

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Bur OakQuercus macrocarpa

Shade ProvisionNurse PlantWind Protection

Wrinkleleaf GoldenrodSolidago rugosa

Wind ProtectionBeneficial Insect Habitat

SwitchgrassPanicum virgatum

Beneficial Insect HabitatWind Protection

Indian GrassSorghastrum nutans

Beneficial Insect HabitatWind Protection

Common MilkweedAsclepias syriaca

Wind ProtectionBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

Tufted Hair GrassDeschampsia cespitosa

Big bluestem's aggressive growth outcompetes tufted hair grass

Creeping PhloxPhlox subulata

Big bluestem's tall dense growth shades out and outcompetes creeping phlox

Uses

Functions

Erosion ControlBiomassWildlife Habitat

Common Questions

What zones does Big Bluestem grow in?

Big Bluestem grows in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9.

What are good companion plants for Big Bluestem?

Good companions for Big Bluestem include Bur Oak, Wrinkleleaf Goldenrod, Switchgrass, Indian Grass, Common Milkweed.

Design guilds with Big Bluestem and see companion relationships visually.

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