Big Bluestem
Andropogon gerardii

Big Bluestem Plant

                           Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) grows rapidly to 6 ft, prefers loamy soil, full sun,                                                  moderate moisture, and is edible but not medicinal.


Picture illustrating Big Bluestem plant

Habit

Grass

Height

1.5-2.5 m

Growth

Moderate


Soil

Well-drained, sandy loam

Shade

Full

Moisture

Moderate

Edible

Yes

Medicinal

No

Origin

North America

Climatic Condition

Temperate

Temperature (°)

15-30°C

Humidity (%)

60-80%

Potting media

Garden soil

Fertilizers

Organic fertilizer

Watering

Regular watering; drought-tolerant once established

Plant Weight 

2-4 kg

Flowering Time

Late Summer to Fall

Soil Ph level

6.0 - 7.5

Water Ph level

6.0 - 7.0

Soil EC

0.3 - 0.6

Yield Per Plant 

 Forage production

NPK ratio 

10:10:10

life Span

Perennial

Health Benefits

Used as forage; attracts wildlife.

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% compost, 25% sand, 25% peat moss

Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with balanced fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

Leaf Spot, Rust, Smut, Root Rot, Anthracnose.

Dark brown spots on leaves, Yellow-orange pustules on leaves, Black, powdery growth on leaves, Yellowing, stunted growth, Dark, sunken lesions on stems.

Neem oil, compost tea, Sulfur spray, remove infected leaves, Crop rotation, clean seeds, Improve drainage. 

Copper-based fungicides, Fungicides with propiconazole, Fungicides with mancozeb, Soil-applied fungicides, Fungicides with azoxystrobin. 

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

Health Benefits of Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Big Bluestem is a native prairie grass primarily used for soil conservation, livestock forage, and ecosystem restoration. While it is not commonly used in human medicine, some traditional and ecological benefits may indirectly support health and wellness.

1. Rich in Nutrients for Livestock & Soil Health

  • Used as nutritious forage for cattle and other grazing animals.

  • Helps maintain healthy soil, which supports sustainable agriculture and food security.

2. Environmental & Respiratory Benefits

  • Prevents soil erosion, reducing dust pollution that can trigger respiratory issues.

  • Helps improve air quality by sequestering carbon and filtering pollutants.

3. Supports Biodiversity & Ecological Balance

  • Provides habitat and food for pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.

  • Contributes to a healthier environment, which indirectly supports human well-being.

4. Potential Medicinal & Herbal Uses (Limited Evidence)

  • Some Native American traditions may have used grasses like Big Bluestem for herbal poultices or wound healing, but documentation is scarce.

  • Similar prairie grasses have been used in traditional medicine for digestive health and fever reduction.

5. Soil & Water Purification

  • Absorbs excess nutrients and contaminants from the soil, helping maintain clean water sources.

  • Healthy water ecosystems lead to better overall public health.

6. Carbon Sequestration & Climate Health

  • Acts as a carbon sink, reducing greenhouse gases and improving air quality.

  • A healthier climate contributes to fewer heat-related illnesses and respiratory conditions.

How Big Bluestem Benefits Human Health Indirectly

  • Supports sustainable agriculture, ensuring long-term food security.

  • Helps combat climate change, reducing pollution-related health risks.

  • Contributes to mental well-being through prairie conservation and eco-therapy.

Foxtail Barley
Hordeum jubatum