Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' - Big Bluestem cultivar

Sizes available: #1 (Trade gallon)

Basics: zones 3-9, 4-5' x 1.5-2', full sun, The blooms are a purply, brownish-red and emerge on stalks held above the foliage in late summer to early fall, this grass has dark green foliage in the spring that turns almost black as the temperature drops, likes moist to dry well-drained soil, is drought tolerant once established and not picky as to pH.

Common names: Big Bluestem, Turkeyfoot Grass

Family: Poaceae

Origin/Distribution: This is a cultivar of Big Blue Stem, Andropogon gerardii, discovered as a seedling from A. gerardii 'Red October' and developed by Brent Horvath of Intrinsic Perennials. The species is native to Maine.

Habitat: The species was a main component of midwestern tall grass prairies. Full sun in fields, prairies, or meadows are it's happy places. Big Bluestem  will grow in less sunny spots, but its characteristics will change. 

More: The early foliage of 'Blackhawks' is deep green with purple undertones and turns darker as the season cools. Very handsome once it gets going. Deer and juglone tolerant. Works well in larger borders and containers, or as erosion control. I am going to try adding it to floral arrangements. 

Source: Van Berkum and New Moon (depending on size)

Image credits: New Moon Nursery