Skip to main content

Broomsedge Bluestem

Anatherum virginicum

Last reviewed: August 2026

Broomsedge Bluestem (Anatherum virginicum) is a perennial grass native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states. It blooms in June, July, August, and September. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.

Broomsedge Bluestem (Anatherum virginicum)
Photo: (c) Forest and Kim Starr, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Anatherum virginicum is a native ornamental grass that forms compact clumps with fine-textured foliage. It produces delicate flower spikes from summer through early fall, adding subtle movement and texture to garden beds. This low-maintenance perennial adapts well to partial sun conditions and average moisture levels.

Growing Broomsedge Bluestem

Grow Broomsedge Bluestem in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Broomsedge Bluestem is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

This native grass provides habitat and nesting material for small birds. The seeds offer food for songbirds and small mammals in fall and winter.

Common questions

How much sun does Broomsedge Bluestem need?
Broomsedge Bluestem grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Broomsedge Bluestem bloom?
Broomsedge Bluestem blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Broomsedge Bluestem native?
Broomsedge Bluestem (Anatherum virginicum) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
Is Broomsedge Bluestem HOA-friendly?
Broomsedge Bluestem is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Broomsedge Bluestem? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz