Little Bluestem Grass Seeds (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Native Prairie Grass for Butterfly Habitat, Erosion Control & Fall Color
Heirloom - Non-GMO - Reliable Germination
Little Bluestem Grass Seeds (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Native Prairie Grass for Butterfly Habitat, Erosion Control & Fall Color - 1 Packet is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Little Bluestem grass seeds (Schizachyrium scoparium) grow into one of North America’s most important and visually striking native prairie grasses. This warm-season bunchgrass features fine blue-green foliage through summer that transforms into rich copper-red tones in fall, with upright seed heads that persist through winter for year-round landscape interest.
Beyond its ornamental value, Little Bluestem is a cornerstone species for wildlife conservation. It serves as a larval host plant for nine native skipper butterfly species, including the Dakota, Leonard’s, and Ottoe skippers—species that rely on native grasses for survival. Its deep root system also plays a major role in soil health, erosion control, and drought resilience.
A Foundational Native Grass with Ecological Power:
Little Bluestem is widely used in prairie restorations, conservation plantings, and low-maintenance landscapes due to its adaptability and long-term benefits.
Plant characteristics:
- Native warm-season perennial bunchgrass
- Grows approximately 2–5 feet tall
- Blue-green summer foliage with copper-red fall color
- Deep roots extending 6–8 feet into the soil
- Thrives in USDA zones 3–9
- Deer resistant and fire resilient
Why Customers Love Little Bluestem Grass Seeds:
- Essential larval host for nine native skipper butterfly species
- Provides year-round visual interest and natural texture
- Exceptional drought tolerance once established
- Stabilizes soil and helps prevent erosion
- Produces winter seed for songbirds and wildlife
- Low-maintenance and well-suited for naturalized landscapes
How to Use / How to Grow:
Sow seeds in full sun in well-draining soil. Little Bluestem thrives in sandy, loam, or clay soils and is well suited for prairie plantings, naturalized borders, slopes, and restoration projects. Water during establishment; mature plants require minimal care and tolerate drought well. Plants form attractive clumps that spread slowly over time.
Cold Stratification for Better Germination:
Little Bluestem seeds benefit from cold stratification. Follow packet instructions to expose seeds to cold, moist conditions prior to planting. This process improves germination and supports stronger early growth.
Little Bluestem Grass Seeds (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Native Prai...
Heirloom Native Plant Seeds
All of our seeds are open-pollinated, non-GMO, heirloom varieties with tested germination rates
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Support Native Habitats
- Supports Local Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Native plants are uniquely adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, forming the foundation of healthy ecosystems. They provide essential food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a wide array of native wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects, which helps to maintain and enhance local biodiversity.
- Requires Less Maintenance and Resources: Once established, native plants typically require significantly less water, fertilizer, and pesticides compared to non-native ornamental plants. Their deep root systems improve soil health and water penetration, reducing runoff and erosion, and their natural resistance to local pests and diseases minimizes the need for chemical interventions, saving time, money, and environmental impact.
- Contributes to Climate Resiliency and Conservation: By supporting a healthy native plant community, you are helping to create more resilient landscapes that can better withstand the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Growing native plants also plays a crucial role in conserving local plant genetics, preserving the natural heritage of a region, and providing critical habitat corridors for wildlife facing habitat loss.
- Detailed Growing Information: Paper seed packets include clear planting instructions, germination tips, and seed-saving info, great for beginner or experienced gardeners growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or native plants.
- Trusted USA Seed Company: Family-owned business providing heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds; always fresh, untreated, rigorously tested, and expertly packed for long-term storage and gardening success across all experience levels
Frequently Asked Questions
Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?
Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?
Yes. All of our seeds are heirloom, open-pollinated varieties, which means they can produce seeds that grow true to type and are suitable for seed saving.
You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.
Are your seeds non-GMO?
Are your seeds non-GMO?
Yes. All Survival Garden Seeds are 100% non-GMO. Our seeds are open-pollinated heirloom varieties and are never genetically modified.
Are your seeds treated with chemicals?
Are your seeds treated with chemicals?
No. Our seeds are completely untreated and free from chemical coatings, fungicides, or synthetic treatments.
How do I know my seeds are fresh?
How do I know my seeds are fresh?
Every seed packet includes a packed-for date, and we germination-test each seed lot before packaging to ensure high viability.
What is the shelf life of your seeds?
What is the shelf life of your seeds?
Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.
In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?
In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?
Our varieties are selected to grow successfully across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Each packet includes variety-specific planting guidance and germination tips.
