Blackhawks Big Bluestem

• Height/Spread: 4–6' tall by 24–36" wide
• Habit/Form: Upright
• Hardiness Zone: 3–9
• Exposure: Full sunlight
• Soil: Moist, well-drained

Ornamental value: The 2026 Perennial Plant of the Year is Blackhawks Big Bluestem. If you love ornamental grasses, you'll love Blackhawks Big Bluestem. A robust grower, it forms a clean clump, stays strong and upright, and offers a unique color in the world of ornamental grasses. In the spring, the grass emerges into a dark green color touched with deep purple highlights that turn into a black hue come fall. The flowers get to nearly 6 feet tall and are strong, but flow gracefully in the wind.

Blackhawks Big Bluestem is drought-tolerant and can adapt to many soils, but does best in poorer soils. The perennial works well as a specimen, border plant, or en masse in naturalized areas. It also provides nesting material for birds and mammals.