2022 Plant of the Year, Honorable Mention

An Honorable Mention was awarded to Schizachyrium scoparium, little bluestem.

Little bluestem is a tough ornamental grass almost “ bomb proof in drought conditions.” Birds love the seeds and this plant is a host plant for caterpillars with multi-season interest.

This ornamental grass has a strong vertical form complimenting other plants in the garden as a “great partner” in the landscape. The North American grass is native to most of the United States. The US Forest Service has documented that little bluestem is now found in every one of the lower 48 states except Nevada.

Photo Credit: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens