Big Bluestem
(Andropogon gerardii)
Also known as Turkeyfoot, Big Bluestem is a warm-season bunchgrass that grows to seven feet tall. The seedhead divides into narrow branches that resembles a turkey’s foot. This long-lived perennial is a major component of the tallgrass prairie of central North America. It is excellent for erosion control and provides cover and nest sites for wildlife. Does not tolerate excessive grazing. Turns a lovely reddish brown in autumn.