Species Sand Bluestem
purple-orange spikelets with gold hairs

Sand Bluestem

Andropogon hallii

Sand Bluestem is an evergreen, perennial grass native to North America. It is one of the dominant plant species found in sandy prairies and can often reach up to 4 ft in height. Although long-lived, it matures in late summer and produces tufts of light-brown, spike-like flowers that develop into slender, bead-like grains at the end of the stem. Its foliage is a bluish-green and usually grows in clusters, with long, thin leaves taking the shape of a blue-green fan. Its grassy texture and unique color contribute to its popularity as a landscaping ornamental grass and make it a valuable wildlife habitat for birds and small mammals.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water the Glaucous-Leaved Bog Rosemary (Andromeda polifolia var. latifolia) regularly, providing adequate moisture to the plant. During the growing season, water thoroughly once every week or so, but ensure that the soil is not saturated. During dry periods, water twice a week. In the winter, decrease frequency of watering modestly, depending on the weather conditions. Always assess the moisture of the soil before watering to avoid potential issues.

sunlight

For a Glaucous-Leaved Bog Rosemary plant to reach its full potential, it should receive 4 to 6 hours of direct, full sun daily. The best time to receive this sunlight is during the peak sun hours of the day between 10am and 4pm. If your Bog Rosemary is planted in a partially shaded area, it can still get enough sun if the periods of direct sunlight add up to 4 to 6 hours. Any less sunlight than this can limit the plants blooming and growth potential.

pruning

Pruning for Glaucous-Leaved Bog Rosemary (Andromeda polifolia var. latifolia) should be done annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning should consist of removing any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are growing too close together. This species tends to form thickets and should be pruned back to maintain an open, park-like structure. Prune no more than 1-third of the total canopy at 1 time, and no more than 1-third of any individual branch at 1 time. This species benefits from light pruning, so aim to cut back to the leaf buds and not too far beyond.

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.