Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

2 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

The Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass puts on a dazzling and colorful display. Also known as Schizachyrium scoparium, this is tall ornamental grass. New foliage emerges in a blue-green color before transitioning to scarlet red by summer’s end and finally a reddish-purple by fall. This cultivar has an upright growth habit and strong foliage that remains upright and does not bend or arch as is common for most ornamental grasses. Pink flowers provide additional color and interest.

This grass is a native plant that is easy to maintain. Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass is clump-forming and slow-growing, so be patient, and this plant will eventually spread. Create a stunning mass planting along a fence or property line, or plant along a walkway or foundation wall. The foliage is deer-resistant, making it a good choice for areas with lots of foraging animals. Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass is a perennial in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass Care

Plant in full sun in dry to moist soil that promotes drainage. Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass likes dry conditions, so only water when the soil is dry. This grass is drought-tolerant, but water during a dry period to keep the foliage healthy. Fertilizing is unnecessary, and this plant will do well without assistance.

Trim the flowers before they go to seed if you don’t want this plant to self-seed, but birds will eat the seeds if you leave the flowers in place. Cut the growth back in the fall to encourage more abundant and sturdy growth the following year.

Smoke Signal Little Bluestem Grass Spacing

This striking ornamental grass will reach 36 to 48 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide. Plants can be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart for a continuous look.