Broomsedge Bluestem - Andropogon virgincus
 
Broomsedge bluestem, Andropogon virgincus, is clump forming perennial native grass that grows in narrow upright tufts. With leaves medium green and erect, the foliage turns a brilliant golden orange in fall and winter. This grass excels in sunny locations with disturbed or poor infertile soils, lending it to be a common roadside grass. The seeds are evenly distributed along 2 – 5′ stems, and are quite dramatic when the fine hairs of expanded racemes catch dappled sunlight. This is a great plant to consider for tough xeric, full sun sites such as meadows, restoration projects, or coastal plantings. Because Andropogon virginicus reseeds, it can maintain its place in landscapes that are prone to disturbance or other challenging conditions. A range of native insects feed on Andropogon virginicus foliage, including Skipper larvae, leafhoppers and leaf beetles. Its persistent foliage lasts through the winter which provides shelter and nesting habitat for birds who also eat its seed.
 
Photo: NorthCreek Nurseries