Educational Story
The Chalky Bluestem, Andropogon virginicus, is a fast growing grass that grows in scrubby flatwoods and is a primary succession plant that establishes itself after disturbance events such as tropical storms and wildfires. The stems of this grass are covered with a chalky wax coating that can be easily rubbed off, and gives the stems a blue hue. Close inspection of the grass stem, display a range of color, from the delicate yellow seeds to alternating greens, turquoise, and red-pinks, earning it a reputation of elegance and sophistication for its display of subtle beauty.
3D AR & VR Model
Gardening Facts
| Scientific Name: | Andropogon virginicus var. glaucus |
| Common Name: | Chalky Bluestem |
| Description of facts and concepts: | A primary succession plant that colonizes disturbed sites |
| Seed or division information: | Clump forming with wind dispersed seeds |
| Date of flower’s bloom (Month and week): | Sep-Oct |
| Ecoregion: | Florida to Canada and west to Texas |
| Color of Flower: | Yellow |
| Height: | Up to 5 feet |
| Spread: | Half a foot |
| Family: | Poaceae (Grass Family) |
| Soil Type: Base to Acidic | Acidic |
| Soil: Dry to Wet | Variable |
| Light: Sun to Shade | Sun to Part Shade |
| Zone | 6A-11B |