Big bluestem

Andropogon gerardii

Warm season, long-lived, perennial, bunchy sod-former occurs on a wide range of sites but thrives on well-drained soils. Rhizomes spread slowly. Tall, averaging 5-8 ft. in height, occasionally reaching 12 ft. Tolerates slightly acidic and saline soils. Withstands periodic flooding and high water tables. Co-dominant species with Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans) in the tallgrass prairie ecosystem; minor component of some mixed-grass prairie sites. Excellent palatability and highly productive.