Little Bluestem 'Standing Ovation'

Little Bluestem 'Standing Ovation' (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation')

Little Bluestem 'Standing Ovation' is a standout ornamental grass known for its sturdy, upright habit and vibrant year-round color. This native grass provides essential habitat and food for wildlife, particularly in meadows and prairies. It supports ground-nesting birds and provides seeds for small mammals and songbirds during the fall and winter. 'Standing Ovation' also plays a crucial role in soil health, preventing erosion with its extensive root system and thriving in poor, dry soils. Its striking blue-green foliage turns rich shades of red, orange, and purple in fall, making it a stunning addition to any landscape.

Key Characteristics:

• Wildlife Habitat and Food Source: Little Bluestem provides critical cover for ground-nesting birds like sparrows and quail, while its seeds feed songbirds such as finches and juncos in the winter. It also attracts beneficial insects and pollinators like butterflies.

• Erosion Control and Soil Health: With its deep root system, Little Bluestem is excellent for preventing erosion on slopes or dry areas. It improves soil structure by increasing organic matter and aiding water retention in poor soils.

• Ornamental Landscape Use: 'Standing Ovation' stands out for its upright, clumping form and vibrant seasonal color changes. It makes a striking addition to meadows, borders, or naturalistic plantings, adding vertical interest with minimal care.

• Drought-Tolerant and Low Maintenance: This grass thrives in well-drained, dry to medium-dry soils, making it ideal for xeriscapes or areas with poor soil. Once established, it requires little water and no fertilization, perfect for low-maintenance landscapes.

• Native Grass for Meadows and Prairies: 'Standing Ovation' fits seamlessly into meadow and prairie plantings, providing height and structure in native gardens and restoration projects, while supporting biodiversity.

Product Details:

• Native range: North America
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Dry to medium-dry, well-drained soils
• Mature height: 2-4 feet
• Bloom time: August to October
• Bloom color: Bronze seed heads
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3-9

Little Bluestem 'Standing Ovation' is a must-have for wildlife gardens, offering beauty, erosion control, and ecological benefits year-round.