Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' (Big Bluestem) Unity Grown

Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' is a cultivar of big bluestem, an upright, perennial prairie grass native to most areas of the United States, that is noted for its colorful foliage. Although 'Blackhawks' leaves emerge bright green with red accents in the spring, but the foliage begins to turn to deeper reds and purples in late summer, eventually becoming so deeply purple that some spots almost look black by early-fall. After the colors begin to fade, the grass's structure and its attractive bronzey hues begin to shine, and the plant makes an attractive addition to the garden even in the dead of winter.

Andropogon gerardii generally prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but it can thrive in a variety of soils and conditions; when ideal conditions are met, it can reach heights of up to 4-5' tall, with flowers occasionally adding up to three extra feet! These large, purple, airy flowers appear in late summer before turning to persistent seed heads, which last through the winter and provide a food source for migrating and overwintering birds. An equally excellent choice for sunny, drought-prone gardens or for riverbank erosion management projects, 'Blackhawks' is a colorful cultivar with excellent ecological benefits.