Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Standing Ovation’ (Little Bluestem)
Little Bluestem 'Standing Ovation', Blue Stem 'Standing Ovation', Prairie Beardgrass 'Standing Ovation', Prairie Beard Grass 'Standing Ovation'Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Standing Ovation’, or Little Bluestem ‘Standing Ovation’, is a stunning warm-season grass. It features sturdy, upright blue-green foliage with red accents, creating a striking vertical element in landscapes. In autumn, the foliage turns vibrant shades of orange, red, and purple, adding seasonal beauty. Silvery seed heads shimmer in sunlight, further enhancing its appeal. Growing 3–4 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide, it fits perfectly into borders, prairie gardens, and areas requiring erosion control. Additionally, it attracts pollinators and provides shelter for small wildlife, enriching your garden’s ecosystem.
This cultivar thrives in USDA zones 3–9, performing best in full sun where its vibrant colors flourish. It adapts to various soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay, provided the soil drains well. Once established, the plant becomes highly drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering. Its deep root system stabilizes soil, preventing erosion, and making it useful on slopes or disturbed areas. Deer tend to avoid it, adding to its reliability in different settings. ‘Standing Ovation’ is a low-maintenance, sustainable choice for gardeners who value both aesthetics and functionality.
Care Instructions
- Light Needs: Plant in full sun for the best color and growth.
- Soil Preferences: Prefers well-drained sandy, rocky, or clay soils.
- Watering: Water consistently during the first growing season to establish roots; after that, only occasional watering is needed.
- Spacing: Place plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and maintain their upright form.
- Pruning: Cut back the foliage to a few inches above the ground in late winter or early spring for fresh growth.
- Seasonal Features: Leave the foliage and seed heads in winter to provide interest and food for wildlife.
‘Standing Ovation’ combines bold visual appeal with practical benefits like erosion control and drought tolerance. It adds texture and color to borders or mass plantings, while its ease of care makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. This grass truly stands out as a functional and decorative addition to any landscape.
