Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks'

The 2026 Perennial Plant of the Year® from the Perennial Plant Association, Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’ delights gardeners with a season-long color show. Leaves of this improved variety of Big Bluestem native to American prairies, emerge dark green in spring, turn purple as nights begin to cool in late summer, and mature to nearly black by fall. Purplish-red flower stems also add late-season interest. This upright grass provides nesting materials for birds and other mammals yet does not attract deer. It is also tough, tolerating drought, dry sites, and the soil beneath Black Walnut trees. Use to create a screen in your yard or to add a natural look to gardens and foundation plantings. PP 27,949

The genus Andropogon consists of about 100 species of Grasses native to temperate and tropical grasslands of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The approximately 13 North American species are commonly referred to as Broomsedge or Bluestem. They are primarily perennial, clump-forming warm-season Grasses that actively grow from June into early September, remaining green through hot weather, then going dormant in fall, often standing upright through winter. The wind-pollinated inflorescences (clusters of tiny, individual flowers) and fluffy seed heads are especially beautiful in late summer and fall, and generally not considered invasive. They prefer full sun and well-drained soils. These deeply-rooted Grasses are resilient, drought tolerant, and adaptable to various soil types, including acidic and poor, sandy, or rocky soils. Once established, they tend to be long-lived in the landscape. Their adaptability, deer-resistance, ecological importance, and visual appeal make Andropogon plants valuable for diverse purposes, including erosion control, prairie restoration plantings, habitat creation, sustainable landscaping, xeriscapes, meadows, screening, and ornamental gardens.

For more information on Andropogon, click Growing Guide.