Splitbeard Bluestem

Andropogon ternarius
AKA: Andropogon argyreus, Andropogon scribnerianus,  Andropogon ternarius var. glaucescens

Size: 1 Gallon Availability

Grass
Max size: 4’ tall x 2’ wide
Average size: 2′ tall x 1′ wide

Moist to Dry, Very Dry
Loam, Sand, Clay
Sun, Part Shade

AKA: Silver Bluestem, Bunchgrass, Split Bluestem

This perennial grass develops a silvery blue-green cast with age, and turn copper or red in the fall. Prune/pull dead stalks before fresh growth in spring.

Members of the genus Anatherum support Common Wood-Nymph larvae which have one brood from late May to October; adult butterflies feed on rotting fruit and flower nectar. This plant also supports various Skipper larvae. Provides year-round cover and nesting for various wildlife species. Seeds are eaten by songbirds and small mammals.

Additional sources: NC State Extension, Atlas of Florida Plants