Schizachyrium scoparium (Michx.) Nash var. scoparium
Whole plant
Family : Poaceae
Longevity : Perennial
Origin : Native
Season : Warm
Little Bluestem can be found growing in various Types of soils of the Edwards Plateau and South Texas Plains. It is an erect bunch grass reaching a height of 20 to 80 inches. The stems are flattened and rise from a leafy base. The long leaf blades are 3 1/8 to 10 inches in length and are 1/16 to 1/4 inch wide. Little Bluestem reproduces through tillers and seeds. The seeds mature in October and November. and have a twisted awns on the seed head. The entire plant is a blue green color and matures into a reddish brown color. Little bluestem provides food and nesting cover to Montezuma and bobwhite quail as well as other upland game birds. It is an excellent forage for livestock. However, it tends to decrease with heavy grazing.
