Schizachyrium scoparium

(little bluestem)

Habitat:Grasslands, dry fields, roadsides, rock outcrops, open woodlands. The preference is full sun and mesic to dry conditions. Different kinds of soil are tolerated, including those that contain clay-loam, gravel, or sand. Less fertile soil is preferred because of the reduced competition from taller vegetation. Because of its C4 metabolism, Little Bluestem develops primarily during the warm weather of summer and early fall, and it has excellent drought resistance.