Andropogon tenarius varies across its natural range. This variant of Texas native, Splitbeard Bluestem, was found on Black Mountain, North Carolina by Terry Dalton of the North Carolina Arboretum. He chose it from his family’s wild meadow because of its compact stature, staying 3′ or under, and attractive blue green foliage. Flowering stems emerge blue green and develop pink and red hues later in summer. The inflorescences have spikelets covered in silvery, white hairs. The effect is shimmering white tufts that contrast with the stems and sparkle in the sunlight.
Best grown in full sun and well-draining, sandy or silty loams. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions including dry, clayey, gravely, and poor soils. It is tolerant of drought once established. Prefers not to be fertilized. Cut back in late winter or early spring to make room for new growth. Birds and small mammals will appreciate its seeds.
Height: 1.5′-3′ Spread: 1’-1.5′ Bloom: September-November Light: Full Sun Water: Low-Medium Zone: 6-9 Origin: North Carolina
