Family: Poaceae, Grass view all from this family

Description This is a 1 1/2 ft. bunchgrass that can reach 4 ft. in height. Ribbon-like leaves are often purplish, and the silvery-white seed tufts are borne in yellow bracts along the stem. Mature plants are 6-12 in. in diameter. Split-beard Bluestem is a perennial.

Habitat Sandy, open or wooded areas.

Range New Jersey to Oklahoma, south to the Gulf of Mexico.

Discussion Without supplemental watering, Split-beard Bluestem stays under 2 ft. tall, making it a choice meadow grass. Stems may be cut back in winter, after the grass has gone to seed.