Andropogon g., Big Bluestem - Pair of 3 Gal

The Andropogon gerardii, better known as Big Bluestem, is the towering king of native ornamental grasses—the one that turns your backyard into a mini-Tallgrass Prairie without the bison (though it might attract a few envious neighbors). This iconic beauty starts the season with sturdy upright clumps of blue-green foliage that hint at its name, then explodes into a spectacular fall fireworks show: stems blush purple, then ignite in fiery reds, oranges, and coppers that glow like embers in the autumn sun. Topping it off are the distinctive three-pronged "turkey foot" seed heads that dance on the breeze, adding whimsical texture and winter interest long after other plants have thrown in the towel.

Homeowners love its versatility: use it as a dramatic focal point, a natural privacy screen (say goodbye to nosy neighbors), a bold backdrop in perennial borders, erosion control on slopes, or the backbone of a wildlife-friendly meadow planting. Pollinators and birds adore the seeds and shelter, while deer usually browse elsewhere.

Thriving in full sun (partial shade tolerated but expect a lankier stance), it reaches an impressive 5-8 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide—perfect for adding architecture without overwhelming smaller spaces. Extremely drought-tolerant once established, heat-loving, and low-maintenance, it laughs off poor soil and Indiana's wild weather swings. Seed heads emerge late summer into fall. In zone 6a, this hardy native perennial (zones 3-9) delivers effortless, four-season swagger—who knew going big could be this easy and entertaining?