Silver Bluestem – Bothriochloa Laguroides

Silver Bluestem, scientifically known as Bothriochloa Laguroides, is a striking ornamental grass prized for its stunning silver-blue foliage and graceful appearance. This resilient perennial grass is a wonderful addition to any garden or landscape, offering a touch of elegance and natural beauty. Its adaptability and unique aesthetic make it a versatile choice for a wide range of landscaping projects. Grows in well-drained soils of grasslands, prairies, roadsides, river bottoms, and woodlands, often on limestone.

 

Typical Uses:

• Ornamental Landscaping: This grass’s striking silver-blue color and fine-textured foliage make it an ideal choice for ornamental landscapes. It can be used as a focal point in mixed beds, rock gardens, or as a stand-alone specimen plant.
• Erosion Control: Silver Bluestem’s robust root system and soil-binding properties make it an excellent choice for controlling soil erosion on slopes and along waterways.
• Wildlife Attraction: The seed heads of Silver Bluestem attract birds and wildlife, making it a valuable addition to naturalized areas and wildlife gardens.

Establishment and Care Instructions:

To ensure your Silver Bluestem thrives and maintains its beauty, follow these establishment and care instructions:

 

Planting:

• Choose a well-drained location with full to partial sun exposure.
• Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.
  Water thoroughly after planting to establish the root system.
• Water thoroughly after planting to establish the root system.

Maintenance:

• Watering: Silver Bluestem is drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells.
• Pruning: In late winter or early spring, cut back the previous year’s growth to encourage fresh new growth.
• Fertilization: Minimal fertilization is necessary, as Silver Bluestem thrives in poor to moderately fertile soils.

Special Features and Usage:

• Drought Tolerance: Silver Bluestem is exceptionally drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for regions with low water availability.
• Winter Interest: The silver-blue foliage provides visual interest throughout the winter months, making it a valuable addition to cold-season gardens.
• Wildlife Attraction: The seed heads and dense foliage of Silver Bluestem attract birds and butterflies, adding a touch of nature to your outdoor space.
• Low Maintenance: This ornamental grass is relatively low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.