Andropogon tener, commonly known as Blue Bluestem or Blue Stem, is a perennial grass native to tropical and subtropical regions, Southeastern USA, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It thrives in open areas such as grasslands, savannas, and light woodlands. Blue Bluestem grows moderately to a height of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), featuring upright clumps of slender, blue-green leaves. The inflorescences are composed of yellow or green flowers that bloom in the summer and fall, adding a subtle touch of color to the landscape. The plant is not particularly showy, but its fine-textured foliage sways gracefully in the breeze, providing movement and interest in the garden.

Blue Bluestem is valued for its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in prairie restorations, as erosion control, and in wildflower meadows. This grass is adapted to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but it prefers well-drained conditions. It is highly tolerant of heat and can thrive with minimal water once established. While generally pest and disease-free, rust and leaf spot can occasionally affect the plant. Blue Bluestem is also useful for forage in its native range but should be managed to prevent overgrazing.CC BY-SA 4.0