Splitbeard Bluestem
Andropogon ternarius
Last reviewed: June 2026
Splitbeard Bluestem (Andropogon ternarius) is a perennial grass native to TX. It blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November. The flowers draw bees. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Splitbeard Bluestem as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
18"–48" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
TX
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Splitbeard Bluestem is a clumping native grass that forms neat, upright bunches with fine-textured foliage. It produces attractive seed heads from summer through late fall and turns golden or bronze in winter before going dormant.
Growing Splitbeard Bluestem
Grow Splitbeard Bluestem in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 18 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Splitbeard Bluestem is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Cut back in late winter
Wildlife value
This grass provides nectar for bees during its long blooming period and offers seeds for birds. The dense clumps also provide nesting habitat and shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Splitbeard Bluestem need?
- Splitbeard Bluestem grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Splitbeard Bluestem bloom?
- Splitbeard Bluestem blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Splitbeard Bluestem native?
- Splitbeard Bluestem (Andropogon ternarius) is native to TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Splitbeard Bluestem toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Splitbeard Bluestem as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Splitbeard Bluestem attract?
- Splitbeard Bluestem draws bees.
- Is Splitbeard Bluestem HOA-friendly?
- Splitbeard Bluestem is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Splitbeard Bluestem fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.