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Big Bluestem Blackhawks

Big Bluestem Blackhawks

Transform your garden or landscape with the striking beauty and dynamic presence of Big Bluestem ‘Blackhawks’, a refined variety of the iconic Big Bluestem grass. Known for its impressive height, bold texture, and vibrant autumn colors, ‘Blackhawks’ is an excellent choice for adding drama and seasonal interest to your garden. This versatile native grass is perfect for naturalized landscapes, prairie gardens, and as an attractive backdrop in garden beds.

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Key Features:

  • Size & Growth: The Big Bluestem ‘Blackhawks’ typically reaches a height of 5 to 6 feet with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. Its tall, upright growth habit provides a dramatic vertical element in the landscape, making it a striking feature in garden designs.

  • Foliage: Features arching, blue-green leaves that turn a rich reddish-bronze in the fall. The foliage forms a dense, upright clump that provides texture and movement throughout the growing season. The leaf blades are narrow and have a distinctive, fine texture.

  • Flowers: Produces plume-like flower heads in late summer to early fall. The flower spikes are a purplish-brown color and add visual interest and movement to the plant as they sway in the breeze. The seed heads have a unique, branching structure that adds architectural appeal.

  • Blooming Time: Blooms from late summer to early fall, typically from August to September. The plant’s flowering period provides a beautiful display and extends the visual interest of your garden into the cooler months.

  • Disease Resistance: The Big Bluestem ‘Blackhawks’ is generally resistant to common pests and diseases affecting ornamental grasses, making it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for various growing conditions.

  • Soil & Light Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil and thrives in full sun. It is highly adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is well-suited for dry and drought-tolerant environments once established.

  • Care Instructions: Requires minimal maintenance once established. Regular watering during dry periods helps keep the plant hydrated, but it is highly drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions. In late fall or early spring, cut back the plant to remove dead foliage and promote healthy new growth. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain soil moisture and reduce competition from weeds.

Uses:

  • Ornamental: Ideal for adding height, texture, and seasonal color to garden beds, borders, and naturalized landscapes. The Big Bluestem ‘Blackhawks’ provides a bold architectural element and complements a variety of garden styles.
  • Prairie Garden: Perfect for prairie and meadow gardens, where its tall, graceful form and vibrant fall color can be showcased.
  • Windbreak: Effective as a windbreak or privacy screen due to its height and dense growth habit.

Planting & Maintenance:

  • Planting: Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and place the plant at the same depth it was growing in the container. Space multiple plants about 2 to 3 feet apart to accommodate their mature spread.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and during dry periods to establish the plant. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
  • Pruning: Prune in late fall or early spring to remove dead foliage and seed heads. This helps maintain the plant’s appearance and encourages healthy new growth.

Enhance your garden with the majestic beauty and vibrant colors of Big Bluestem ‘Blackhawks’. Its impressive size, striking texture, and seasonal interest make it a valuable and versatile addition to any landscape or garden design.

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