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(Bothriochloa bladhii)
Australian Bluestem (Bothriochloa bladhii)
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© Greg Tasney
CC BY-SA 4.0
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© Greg Tasney
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Greg Tasney | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | Uploader: gregtasney | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Bothriochloa bladhii, commonly known as Australian bluestem, is a perennial grass native to savannas, open woodlands, and grasslands in Africa, southern and eastern Asia, Malesia, and Australia. It is a warm-season grass that typically forms dense clumps and can reach heights of 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 meters). The foliage is bluish-green, and the plant produces purplish inflorescences during its flowering season, which add a touch of color to the landscape. Australian bluestem is known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, making it a versatile choice for erosion control and as forage for livestock.
In cultivation, Australian bluestem is valued for its low maintenance requirements and adaptability to poor soils. It is often used for pasture, erosion control, and as an ornamental grass in xeriscaping due to its drought resistance. It prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, from well-drained to moderately fertile. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can become invasive outside its native range, so it is important to monitor its spread and manage it accordingly.CC BY-SA 4.0
In cultivation, Australian bluestem is valued for its low maintenance requirements and adaptability to poor soils. It is often used for pasture, erosion control, and as an ornamental grass in xeriscaping due to its drought resistance. It prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, from well-drained to moderately fertile. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can become invasive outside its native range, so it is important to monitor its spread and manage it accordingly.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Grass
- Height: 1.5-3 feet
- Width: 2-4 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Savannas, open woodlands, and grasslands
Other Names
Common Names: Caucasian Bluestem, Australian Bluestem, Burnett River-Bluegrass, Forest-Bluegrass, Plains Bluestem, Purple Plume Grass
Scientific Names: , Bothriochloa bladhii, Amphilophis glabra var. haenkei, Amphilophis haenkei, Amphilophis insculpta var. vegetior, Amphilophis intermedia, Amphilophis intermedia var. acidula, Amphilophis odorata, Anatherum montanum, Andropogon annulatus var. bladhii
GBIF Accepted Name: