Schizachyrium microstachyum, commonly known as Little Bluestem or Dwarf Beardgrass, is a perennial grass native to prairies, savannas, and open woodlands throughout Mexico to South America. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.5-3 feet (0.46-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). This grass features fine-textured foliage that transitions from blue-green in summer to a striking coppery-orange in the fall, providing year-round visual interest. The inflorescences are fluffy and purplish to bronze, appearing in late summer and persisting into fall, adding a soft texture to the landscape.

Little Bluestem is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance naturalistic plantings and restoration projects. It is often used in prairie restorations, as a border plant, or in mass plantings for erosion control. This grass is also a vital component of the North American tallgrass prairie ecosystem, supporting a variety of wildlife. It requires full sun to maintain its best form and color and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating a range from clay to sandy loam. While generally pest and disease-free, it can suffer from rust in humid conditions. Little Bluestem is not known for aggressive roots or significant problems in the garden, but it can self-seed and spread if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0