Blackhawks Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks')

Blackhawks Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks') is a perennial grass with a tall, upright habit and foliage that turns dark purple to nearly black in fall. Purplish flower spikes appear in late summer, adding another layer of seasonal interest.

Its standing stems provide winter interest, and its seeds offer food for birds during colder months. This drought-tolerant, deer-resistant selection suits sunny wildlife-friendly gardens.

Growing details

• Plant type: Perennial ornamental grass
• Species origin: North America, including Georgia
• Mature size: 4–5 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide
• Spacing: Approximately 1 foot apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained soil
• Flowers: Purplish spikes in late summer
• Fall foliage: Dark purple to nearly black
• Additional traits: Drought tolerant and deer resistant

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance grass should be cut to the ground in late winter before new shoots appear.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, rock gardens, or spacious containers. Pair with milkweed, tickseed, or black-eyed Susan for contrasting flowers and foliage.

Image credits: cultivar413, Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks'; cultivar413 from Fallbrook, California, 190909 066 Chicago Botanic Gdn - Bulb Gdn, Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' Purple-leaf Big Bluestem Grass, Juniperus x pfitzeriana 'Pfitzeriana Ozark' Juniper (48861103283), CC BY 2.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.