Andropogon virginicus

Common Names

Broomsedge, Broomsedge Bluestem, Whiskey Grass, Yellowsedge Bluestem, Popotillo Pajon

Summary

Andropogon virginicus, commonly known as Broomsedge bluestem, is a clump-forming warm-season perennial grass native to the eastern United States. It grows in dense tufts up to 2-4 ft tall and 2-3 ft wide, with green leaves turning orange in fall. Seed heads along the stems are yellow, and the inflorescence consists of loose panicles of bristle-tipped spikelets; wind-dispersed seeds spread the plant. It tolerates drought and poor soils, is fire-tolerant and resprouts after fire, and commonly occupies disturbed sites providing erosion control and wildlife habitat. Sources indicate full sun and tolerance of a range of soils from dry to moist, well-drained; it is a pioneer species that helps stabilize soil and is used in meadow, prairie restoration, roadside plantings, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. It propagates by seed or by division, and seeds are wind-dispersed; in some places it is considered invasive, such as California, Hawaii, Japan, and Australia. It provides cover for birds and is a larval host for the Zabulon Skipper butterfly, contributing to biodiversity; fire ecology is central, with resprouting after fire and increased vigor after burning under certain cycles.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-5 feet

Spread

24-36 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun; tolerates partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-drained sandy or loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

6-7, Slightly acidic to neutral, Tolerates a wide pH range

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow to Tawny Brown

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Medium

Seasons of Interest

All four seasons.

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Division, Root cuttings, Rhizome propagation

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Butterflies