Images Depict Mature Plants
Blackhawks Big Bluestem
Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’ PP27949
If you want a native ornamental grass that reads bold, modern, and effortless, Blackhawks Big Bluestem is the move—upright clumps, late-season plumes, and that deep purple-black fall finish that makes nearby flowers and evergreens pop. It’s a full-sun workhorse for borders, meadow-style massing, and even slopes where tough roots and low water needs really matter. Bonus: it’s widely celebrated for four-season interest—so you’re not just buying summer texture, you’re buying fall color and winter structure too.
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Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’ (Blackhawks Big Bluestem)
Prairie drama with near-black fall color.
Blackhawks Big Bluestem is a native ornamental grass that brings big, bold color to the garden—starting deep green, tipping into burgundy tones in summer, then intensifying to a rich purple-black look as fall arrives. Those late-season plumes and airy seed heads add movement, texture, and serious “stop-and-stare” contrast in sunny borders and naturalistic plantings.
Tall, upright, and landscape-friendly.
This warm-season grass forms a strong, vertical clump with an upright habit that reads clean and intentional (even in looser prairie designs). Expect plants to be roughly 4–5 feet tall and about 2 feet wide in typical garden conditions, with sturdy stems that hold up well into winter, providing off-season structure and a straw-toned beauty.
Sun-lover, tough roots, low fuss.
Plant Blackhawks Big Bluestem in full sun for the deepest color and best form. Like many prairie natives, it’s happiest in well-drained soils, adapts to lean or imperfect ground, and becomes drought-tolerant once established, thanks to a deep, resilient root system.
Height, habitat, and four-season texture.
Use Blackhawks as a bold backdrop behind flowering perennials, a vertical accent in foundation beds, or a repeating “rhythm plant” in modern meadow layouts. It’s also a smart pick for slopes and erosion-prone areas, where its clumping habit and strong roots help hold soil while providing wildlife cover and seed interest through fall and winter.
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 4 to 5 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 2 to 2.5 Feet |
| Classification: | Ornamental grass |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun |
| Habit: | Upright |
| Foliage: | Dark green leaves that turn a stunning deep purple-black |
| Resistance: | Deer resistant; drought tolerant |
| Soil Condition: | Any well-drained soil |
| Water Requirements: | Water well until established |
| Landscape Uses: | Borders, prairie/meadow plantings, massing, winter interest, slopes/erosion control |
How to Care for Blackhawks Big Bluestem
Before you buy Blackhawks Big Bluestem, make sure to read about the recommended care instructions to keep this plant healthy and thriving.
How should I plant Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’?
Start with the right site: choose a location with full sun and soil that drains well. Dig a hole about 2–3x as wide as the root ball and just as deep, so the crown ends up level with the surrounding grade. Gently loosen any circling roots, set the plant so it’s not buried too deep, and backfill with the native soil you removed—firming lightly to eliminate air pockets without compacting the whole area. After planting, water deeply to settle soil around the roots, then apply a 1–2 inch mulch layer (keep mulch off the crown to prevent rot). For single specimens, allow them room to show off their upright form; for massing, use consistent spacing so that each clump can fill in evenly. Spring planting is ideal in most regions, but early fall can work in areas with mild winters—just allow time for root establishment before the first hard freeze.
How often should I water Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’ after planting?
For the first 2–4 weeks, water every 2–3 days if you don’t get soaking rain—aiming for deep, slow watering that moistens the entire root zone. Weeks 5–10, shift to 1–2 deep waterings per week, depending on heat, wind, and soil drainage. The goal is to encourage roots to grow down and out, rather than keeping the surface constantly wet. Once established (after the first growing season), Blackhawks Big Bluestem is remarkably drought-tolerant and typically requires supplemental water only during extended dry periods or in sandy, fast-draining soils. If the foliage looks dull and the soil is dry several inches down, give the plant a deep soak—then let the soil dry slightly between waterings for optimal root health.
When should I fertilize Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’?
This native ornamental grass doesn’t need heavy feeding. If you fertilize, do it once in early spring as new growth begins, using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at a light rate. Too much nitrogen can push weak, floppy growth—so the best practice is “just enough” to support establishment and steady vigor. For a more natural approach, top-dress with compost in spring and let soil biology do the work. A thin compost layer plus an organic mulch helps improve structure and moisture management over time—especially in poor or compacted sites—without overstimulating growth.
When and how should I prune Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’?
Prune Blackhawks like most warm-season grasses: late winter to early spring is best, before fresh shoots emerge. Use sharp hand pruners or hedge shears for small plantings, or a powered trimmer for mass beds. Cut stems down to about 4–8 inches to make room for clean new growth while protecting the crown. For long-term looks, avoid mid-season shearing (it can reduce plumes and spoil the upright form). If a clump becomes crowded after several years, you can lift and divide it in spring—replanting vigorous outer sections to rejuvenate the planting and keep the color and height strong.
