Holy Smoke Big Bluestem

• Speed: Moderate to fast grower.
• Mature Growth: Reaches 4-6 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width, forming a tall, upright clump that sways gracefully in the breeze.

• Attracts: Birds are drawn to the seed heads in fall and winter, while the tall foliage provides shelter for small wildlife.
• Wildlife Resistant: Deer and rabbits typically avoid this grass, making it a good choice for wildlife-prone areas.

• Foliage Season: Spring through fall, with winter interest from seed heads and dormant foliage.
• Flowering Season: Late summer to early fall (August to October).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-9

– Native and prairie-style landscapes

– Naturalistic and meadow plantings

– Erosion control on slopes

– Wildlife-friendly gardens (host plant for some butterflies)

– Structural accent in large beds and borders

• Color: Smoky blue-green leaves in spring and summer, transitioning to deep purple, red, and bronze tones in the fall.
• Form: Narrow, arching leaves that form a dense, upright clump.
• Winter Interest: The foliage and seed heads remain attractive throughout winter, adding structure and movement to the landscape.

• Color: Purplish-bronze flower heads appear on tall, upright stems.
• Form: The flowers emerge as feathery, three-pronged seed heads resembling a turkey's foot, adding texture and interest to the garden.
• Bloom Time: Late summer into fall, followed by ornamental seed heads that persist through winter.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

• Method: Cut back the dried foliage and seed heads to about 6 inches above ground level to encourage fresh, healthy growth in spring.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Holy Smoke is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers dry to moderately moist soil but is adaptable to different moisture levels as long as the soil is well-drained.

Full sun for best color and growth. Can tolerate partial shade, but may become leggy and less colorful in low-light conditions.

– Primarily ornamental, not typically harvested for floral use due to coarse texture

– Can be harvested for dried floral arrangements – cut flowering stems when seed heads are fully formed but not yet shattering

– Harvest in late summer to early fall; hang stems upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area

– Leave seed heads standing through winter for seasonal interest and wildlife value

– In ecological restoration or meadow plantings, seeds may be collected for propagation, but this cultivar is usually propagated vegetatively to maintain its unique color traits

• Fertilization Time: Typically does not require fertilizer in average to poor soils, as it thrives in low-nutrient conditions.

• Fertilizer Type: If desired, apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the grass to become floppy.

• Mulching: Mulch around the base in early spring to retain moisture, improve soil structure, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Holy Smoke is extremely drought-tolerant, making it perfect for xeriscaping or low-water landscapes.

• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest and disease-free. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in overly humid or wet conditions.

Wind-pollinated; produces seeds that may self-sow if left on the plant. Seed heads also attract birds in fall and winter.

• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan)
• Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass)
• Sedum (Stonecrop)