big bluestem (Plants of St. John Fisher University Campus)

big bluestem

Andropogon gerardi

Description ²

This native bunchgrass can grow up to 8ft tall and is among the most dominant and characteristic grasses of North American prairies. It is most easily identified in late summer and fall by its three-pronged flower and seed head that is often likened to a turkey’s foot. It’s foliage color ranges from a bluish-green in the summer to reddish-yellow from fall into winter.

Ecology ²

Big bluestem is a long-lived perennial plant with above ground vegetation that dies back every winter. It’s roots can extend 10-12ft deep into the soil, making it very drought resistant and good at stabilizing soil. This plant does best in moist but well-drained soils in full sun. The dense clumps of dead above ground vegetation provide cover for wildlife through the winter while its seeds are eaten readily by small mammals and birds. Historically, this was one of the most important food sources for migratory herds of bison in North America.

On Campus ²

Prior to 1700, the area where our campus is now located was likely an open savannah-like habitat with scattered oak trees and a grassland-like understory. Big bluestem would have been a common plant here, especially in more mesic (moderately moist) areas. During the 1700’s and 1800’s, these natural “oak openings” would have been grazed by sheep or cattle. This grazing, alongside the introduction of non-native grasses, likely had an adverse impact on native grasses like big bluestem. However, the transition from pasture to the campus we know it as today likely had the greatest impact on this and other plant species as natural habitats were gradually replaced by turf grass lawns and pavement. The remaining big bluestem population at St. John Fisher campus consists of about 8 plants scattered throughout the unmaintained areas directly north and east of lot C.

Sources and Credits

More Info

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big bluestem

Description 2

Ecology 2

On Campus 2