big bluestem

Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) is a tall grass species, often exceeding 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height, and is a characteristic plant of the North American tallgrass prairie. It is also known as turkeyfoot due to its distinctive forked flower cluster. This grass is valuable for hay and pasture.1

Bluestem grasses belong to the genus Andropogon, which includes about 100 species of grasses in the Poaceae family. These grasses are found in temperate and tropical regions and can be annual or perennial. They typically have coarse, solid or pithy stems and flat or folded leaf blades. Some species, like sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii), are used as forage and to bind soil. Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) is another common species found in dry prairie areas.123