Schizachyrium scoparium · Native perennial grass · Poaceae
A clump-forming prairie grass with slender flowering branches and often striking reddish autumn stems.
Growth: Warm-season perennial bunchgrass
Typical height: Often 2–4 feet with flowering stems
Flowering: Late summer into early fall
Habitat: Sunny prairies, sandy openings, bluffs and open savannas
The uploaded grassland photographs are now presented as mixed prairie habitat on our Prairie page. A confirmed close-up of Little Bluestem will be added here when available. Meanwhile, use the identification features and references below.
Look for a single short, narrow raceme at the end of each flowering branch. Fine hairs around the spikelets become more conspicuous as the heads mature. Leaves and stems may turn reddish, but color alone is unreliable.
Big Bluestem usually presents several fingerlike branches together. Broomsedge can also resemble Little Bluestem; check reproductive details rather than relying on an autumn landscape photograph.
Native across much of North America, including the Upper Midwest. The species occurs in sunny grasslands and other open habitats. Observation maps show reported sightings, not the complete native range.
Identification references: Illinois Extension; Minnesota Wildflowers; Wisconsin Horticulture. Reviewed October 24, 2026.