Bushy bluestem grass (Andropogon glomeratus) is a long-stemmed perennial and native prairie grass in Florida up into South Carolina. It is found in swampy areas around ponds and streams and grows in low flatland areas.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Andropogon glomeratus is a species of grass known by the common names bushy bluestem and bushy beardgrass. This bunchgrass is native to the Americas, where it is widespread. It has also naturalized in other areas.
The genus name Andropogon comes from the Greek words ‘aner’ or ‘andros’ meaning “man” and ‘pogon” meaning “beard”, in reference to the hairs on the spikelets of certain species in this genus. The specific epithet glomeratus means “bunched”, in reference to the species’ bushy and broom-like inflorescences.
This grass reaches heights approaching two meters (6 feet) and has large, fluffy cream-colored inflorescences. Each dense, tufted inflorescence has several pairs of hairy spikelets. The leaves may reach over a meter in length and are typically blue-green in the summer and coppery-red in the fall.
This plant does best in moist soils, and is found naturally in areas such as swamps, wet savannas, pine flatwoods, bogs, and fens. It prefers full sun, and is best suited to USDA hardiness zones 5–9.
II. How to Grow and Care
Bushy bluestem thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions, with moist soil that is well-drained. A special care point for bushy bluestem includes its tolerance for wet conditions, making it suitable for rain gardens or areas where water accumulates. However, bushy bluestem can also withstand periods of drought once established. Its care is straightforward, catering to gardeners of all experience levels.
Sunlight
Bushy bluestem thrives best in full sun conditions, where it can receive unfiltered sunlight for at least six hours daily. While it tolerates partial sun, where sunlight is mixed with shade throughout the day, optimal growth and health are observed under maximum light exposure. Deviations from full sunlight may result in reduced vigor and density of bushy bluestem’s foliage. Its adaptive trait includes a potential slight change in leaf color to cope with varying light levels. Outdoors, bushy bluestem should be planted in open areas that receive abundant sunlight. Inappropriate light conditions can lead to stunted growth and diminished flowering capacity.
Watering
Originating from moist areas, bushy bluestem thrives in environments that mimic its native wetlands, exhibiting a high tolerance for humidity. This species is characterized by its ability to maintain hydration even during occasional dry spells, showcasing an impressive balance in water retention. For optimal growth, bushy bluestem requires watering twice a week. As a plant that flourishes outdoors, bushy bluestem demonstrates remarkable resilience in varying rain conditions and adapts well to the seasonal ebb and flow of precipitation.
Fertilizing
Fertilize bushy bluestem with balanced nutrition fertilizers to support robust growth and sustain its verdant foliage. Apply a moderate dose in early spring as active growth commences, and again in mid-summer. Too-frequent fertilization can lead to excessive growth, diluting its natural hardiness. A slow-release formulation ensures gradual nutrient absorption without overwhelming bushy bluestem. Adjust applications based on soil fertility, reducing frequency in rich soils. Always water bushy bluestem after fertilizing to aid nutrient dispersion and prevent root burn.
Propagation
Bushy bluestem thrives in a variety of soil types and environmental conditions making it a versatile species for propagation. As a warm-season grass, it effectively reproduces by sowing.
Start it from seed, planted lightly in the back of a prepared bed. Just one plant can release enough seeds for an entire border, although it is unlikely seeds will fall into the proper formation. When planting from seed, do so when ground is no longer frozen in spring and after the date of the last predicted frost.
While bushy bluestem seed will tolerate in poor soils, the best initial growth is in moist soil. When growing as a landscape plant, mulch helps hold in moisture. Place the mulch about 3 inches (8 cm.) thick, but don’t let it touch the stems.
This plant multiplies easily and after a few years will provide a swath of winter color. If you would like to limit the spread of this grass, you can remove the 3 inch (8 cm.) clusters of seed heads to eliminate unwanted multiplication.
Transplanting
Transplant bushy bluestem in late summer to early fall (season 3-4), a time where it experiences a growth spurt and establishes roots swiftly. They prefer a sunny location with well-drained soil. Remember, a well-planned transplant preparation process can ensure the plant’s survival.
III. Uses and Benefits
Use it also as a decorative landscape plant for the back of a border. When growing for this use, keep weeds away from seeds and young seedlings, as they compete with the grass for nutrients and water. Keep growing seeds moist, but not soggy, until they have some growth.
