A really nice selection of big bluestem, `Holy Smoke’ has a sturdy upright habit with deep blue-green foliage that stands out against contrasting coral-red stems, In late summer and fall, `Holy Smoke’s foliage begins to darken into shades of deep purple and burgundy, which complement the stems. Finally, the plants are topped with dark purple “turkey foot” inflorescences that are indicative of Big Bluestem. The tall dark stature of `Holy Smoke’ works well en-masse or as a backdrop to complementary perennials.
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Details
Hardiness Zone:
3
Blossom Color:
Violet to Purple
Growth Habit:
Clump Forming
Max Height:
6'
Texture:
Fine Texture
Recommended Spacing:
1½' to 2'
We sell this plant in these containers:
#2 Pot
Special Characteristics
Cuttings
Seasonal Effect
Moderate Area
Salt Tolerant
Drought Tolerant
Deer Resistant
Sandy Soil Tolerant
Controls Erosion
Native Cultivar
Features
A sturdy upright habit with deep blue-green foliage that stands out against contrasting coral-red stems.
Landscape Value
The tall dark stature of `Holy Smoke' works well en-masse or as a backdrop to complementary perennials.
Care
Watering:
`Holy Smoke' Big Bluestem is very drought tolerant and typically only needs watering during the hottest days of summer.
Fertilizing:
`Holy Smoke' Big Bluestem needs little fertilizer, but benefits from a single springtime or fall topdressing (about 1 inch deep) of organic compost or well rotted leaves. Alternatively, a springtime application of a slow release fertilizer with a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet.
Pruning:
`Holy Smoke' Big Bluestem should be enjoyed all winter long, then, during early April before it begins to grow again, it should be pruned or mowed back to ground level.
