Schizachyrium s., Chameleon - Prairie

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon' is the pint-sized little bluestem that's basically a living mood ring—starting the season with narrow, upright blades striped in fresh green and creamy white for a cool variegated vibe, then pulling a dramatic switcheroo in late summer as pink and purple tones flush through the foliage like it's blushing at compliments. By fall, the whole clump ignites in rich burgundy hues with subtle silvery seed heads adding airy sparkle, persisting through winter for frosty texture that turns snow into a glittering art piece without any effort.

Homeowners adore its compact versatility: mass it for a low, shimmering groundcover that smothers weeds politely, edge paths or borders for crisp definition, pop into containers for patio pizzazz, mix as a textural filler in perennial beds (especially with hot-colored flowers for contrast), create a mini prairie meadow, or use as erosion control on dry slopes—while providing subtle habitat for birds snacking on winter seeds.

Thriving in full sun (partial shade tolerated but expect slightly muted colors and a lazier posture), it reaches a well-behaved 18-24 inches tall and about 12-18 inches wide—perfect for smaller spaces. Extremely drought-tolerant once established (practically thrives on neglect), deer-resistant, heat-loving, and ultra-low-maintenance native that handles poor soils like a champ. Seed heads emerge late summer into fall, with minor pollinator appeal. In zone 6a Indiana, this hardy perennial (zones 3-9) delivers effortless, four-season chameleon charm.