Sorghastrum elliottii, commonly known as Slender Bluestem, is a perennial grass native to the southeastern United States, particularly thriving in dry, open woods, pine barrens, and savannas. It typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is noted for its fine-textured, blue-green foliage that turns a striking golden color in the fall. The plant produces fluffy, silver-white seed heads that persist into winter, adding visual interest to the landscape. Slender Bluestem is particularly showy in mass plantings where its fall coloration and seed heads can be appreciated.

Slender Bluestem is valued for its ornamental appeal in naturalistic landscapes, restoration projects, and as an accent in gardens. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, provided they are well-drained. This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, rust can occasionally be a problem. Slender Bluestem is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for various garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0