Grass - Schizachyrium scoparium 'Scarlet Arrow' (Little Bluestem)

Scarlet Arrow is a valuable plant for wildlife gardens, attracting various pollinators, including butterflies and bees, with its flowers. The seed heads provide a food source for birds in the fall and winter, while the dense clumps of foliage offer shelter for small animals and beneficial insects. This grass plays an important role in supporting local ecosystems.

This warm-season ornamental grass emerges in late spring, matures through summer, and reaches peak color in late summer to fall when it displays its signature scarlet-red tones. It maintains visual interest into winter with upright seed heads and architectural stems.

– Accent plant in modern or naturalistic landscapes

– Excellent for low-maintenance borders and meadow gardens

– Great for mass planting to create texture and movement

– Perfect for erosion control on slopes due to its fibrous root system

– Works well in xeriscaping and drought-tolerant plantings

– Ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens that attract pollinators and birds

– Suitable for mixed perennial beds where fall color is desired

Scarlet Arrow features upright, narrow blades that start out a soft silvery-blue in spring and summer. As fall approaches, the foliage transforms into stunning shades of red, orange, and purple, creating a bold display of color in the landscape. The narrow, vertical growth habit makes it ideal for adding structure and height to garden beds and borders.

• Flowering Season: Late summer to early fall (August to October).
• Flower Description: In late summer, Scarlet Arrow produces delicate, airy flower panicles that are silvery-white and rise above the foliage on tall, slender stems. The flowers are not particularly showy but add a soft, cloud-like texture to the plant. These seed heads persist into fall and winter, providing additional seasonal interest.

• Planting Time: Plant in early spring or fall to allow the roots to establish before the heat of summer or the cold of winter.

• Soil: Scarlet Arrow thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils but is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including poor and dry soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0) and can tolerate dry conditions once established.

• Spacing: Space plants 1.5-2 feet apart to allow for their upright growth and to create a natural, airy look in mass plantings or borders.

In late winter or early spring, cut back the foliage to about 4-6 inches above ground level before new growth begins. This rejuvenates the plant and keeps it looking tidy. The dried foliage and flower heads can be left standing through the winter for added texture and wildlife shelter.

This grass is highly drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal supplemental watering. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, occasional watering during prolonged dry periods is sufficient. Avoid overwatering, as Scarlet Arrow prefers dry to moderate soil moisture levels.

Full sun is essential for optimal growth and color development. Scarlet Arrow thrives in bright sunlight and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In shaded conditions, the foliage may lose its vibrant color, and the plant may become leggy.

While not traditionally harvested for culinary or medicinal use, seed heads may be cut in late fall for dried floral arrangements or left on the plant to provide winter interest and support wildlife. If collecting seeds, wait until the seed heads are dry and brown before cutting and storing.

Fertilize sparingly in early spring with a light application of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Scarlet Arrow is not a heavy feeder and generally thrives in poor, well-drained soils. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to overly lush growth that may cause the plant to lose its upright form.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as compost or bark, around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching is especially beneficial during the first year to help establish the plant.

• Winter Care: Scarlet Arrow is fully hardy in USDA Zones 3-9 and requires no special winter protection. The dried seed heads and foliage can be left standing through the winter for added interest and wildlife support.

• Pest and Disease Resistance: This grass is highly resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for most gardens. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overly wet conditions to prevent any potential root rot.

The wind-pollinated flowers of Scarlet Arrow attract beneficial insects, including butterflies and bees. The seed heads provide food for birds in late fall and winter, making this grass an excellent addition to wildlife gardens. The dense clumps of foliage also offer shelter for small insects and animals.

Schizachyrium Scarlet Arrow pairs beautifully with plants that thrive in similar dry, sunny conditions. Excellent companions include:

– Echinacea (coneflower) for vibrant summer blooms

– Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan) for rich golds and fall appeal

– Coreopsis for continuous summer color

– Sedum (stonecrop) for drought-tolerant foliage contrast

– Panicum virgatum cultivars for texture and upright form contrast

– Perovskia (Russian sage) for cool-toned foliage and late-season flowers