Andropogon gerardii 'Niagara' (Big Bluestem) Unity Grown

Andropogon gerardii 'Niagara' is a cultivar of big bluestem, an upright, perennial prairie grass native to most areas of the United States, noted for its incredible hardiness, early flowering and seed production, and rapid recovery after its seeds have been harvested. Big bluestem generally prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but it can thrive in a variety of soils and conditions, including poor soils, which is especially true for the 'Niagara' cultivar. Commonly used in roadside ditches and open meadows for erosion control and increased biodiversity, 'Niagara' has also seen an increased usage in areas polluted by mine spoil and in incredibly nutrient poor locations like sand and gravel pits. In addition, the 'Niagara' cultivar's ability to quickly regrow after being cut makes it an excellent plant for use in forage fields for livestock.

Andropogon gerardii 'Niagara' has very deep roots which allow it to survive drought very well when established, and is a large cultivar for big bluestem, typically growing to 6-8' tall, with flowers occasionally adding up to three extra feet, regularly bringing the plants to staggering heights of up to 10 feet! Plants can spread to form large clumps, making 'Niagara' especially impressive when planted in masses. Pale, airy flowers appear in the mid-summer before turning to persistent yellow-gold seed heads, which last through the winter and provide a food source for migrating and overwintering birds. 

Our Andropogon gerardii 'Niagara' plugs are grown from seed here at Unity Church Hill Nursery.