‘Blackhawks’ Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' (PP27949)

For a dramatic, modern twist on a native classic, ‘Blackhawks’ Big Bluestem is an absolute showstopper. While it shares the rugged, drought-tolerant DNA of its prairie ancestors, this cultivar is bred for intense color transformation. Its upright blades begin the summer as a deep dark green, but as the temperatures rise, they shift into a moody, dark purple that eventually turns nearly black by autumn. Reaching about five feet tall, it creates a bold, vertical silhouette that won’t flop over in a summer storm. It’s a fantastic “plant it and forget it” option for homeowners who want to support local pollinators while adding a sophisticated, dark-toned edge to their sun-drenched landscape.

Type

Grass

Height

-5

Width

-2.5

Origin

MO Native

Foliage Type

Deciduous

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Average; best in well-drained, moist, organically rich soil, tolerates some drought once established

Foliage Color

Dark green to deep purple, maturing to near-black in fall

Flower Color

Purplish-red to dark chocolate

Resists

Deer

Attracts

Bees
Birds
Pollinators

Design Use

Rain Garden / Wet Sites
Drought Tolerant
Erosion Control
Privacy / Screening

Special Traits

Showy Foliage
Fall Interest
Winter Interest
Black Walnut Tolerant
Pet Friendly

Hardiness Zones

3–9

Notes

Care: Maintenance is low; leave the dried stalks standing through the winter to provide structural interest and wildlife cover, then cut to the ground in late winter or very early spring.
Soil & Establishment: This cultivar excels in heavy Missouri clay; ensure it receives regular deep watering during the first two growing seasons to help the deep, fibrous root system reach its full potential.
Fertilizing: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause the stems to become weak and lean; a light application of compost in spring is sufficient.
Pests & Diseases: No serious regional issues, though it should be planted in full sun with good air circulation to prevent occasional rust in high humidity.
Habitat: Derived from the tallgrass prairies and glades of the Midwest, this selection is built for the intense sun and fluctuating moisture of the open plains.
Wildlife: Provides essential nesting material and winter seeds for songbirds, and serves as a larval host for various skipper butterflies.
Plant Uses: Ideal for Modern/Contemporary, Screen, Foundation, and Prairie Gardens.
Pet Safety: Non-toxic to dogs and cats according to ASPCA guidelines for the species.
Other: The intense dark pigmentation is most pronounced when the plant is grown in maximum full sun; shade will cause the foliage to remain greener.