Andropogon Ternarius - Split Beard Bluestem
Posted: Friday, September 18, 2009
by Dennis Sons
tn nursery
Andropogon Ternarius is a perennial also know as Split Beard bluestem. It is a species of plant related to the grass family (poacaea). Andropogon grows in bunches to a height of 36-48 inches. Each bunch of Andropogon is about 12-18 inches. The characteristic feature of this grass is the purple- ribbon like leaves with silver whitish seeds that are produced in the yellowish crevices along the stem. This grass like plant is widely distributed in many southern and mid western states. During summer, it is common to see the Andropogon growing wildly in the open woodlands, plains, prairies, and meadows.
Plant features
Andropogon is perennial that looks like a grass. The height of the mature plant varies from 36-48 inches. The leaves have a bright green color with a fruit that is silvery white. The grass blooms at the end of summer and may last till mid November. The color during bloom may change into a bright brownish in autumn.
Andropogon has minimal growth requirement. It requires little water and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. The soil for growth should be well-drained sandy or sandy loam. If for any reason, the soil gets water logged, the grass will die off rather quickly. The grass is unable to tolerate high level of humidity and will occasionally shrivel when moisture content of the air is high.
The Andropogon is one of the most eye-catching bunchgrass that can be used as a garden ornament. It is best grown on the south side and away from large trees. Most experts recommend planting the Andropogon Ternarius 1-2 feet apart and in several rows to get the best scenery.
Because the grass generates seeds, it does attract a variety of birds and animals. The edible seeds attract small animals and insets. Unfortunately, the grass is not deer resistant. Besides deer, rabbits may also forage on this grass. To prevent deer from foraging, one may have to build a solid fence around the plant. Many gardeners choose to grow Andropogon because it can help control soil erosion in poor soil conditions. Even though split beard bluestem is grazed by cattle, the growth (or protein content) is not abundant to satisfy the needs of large animals.
Propagation of the Andropogon is by root division and is best done during winter. The grass requires minimal maintenance but it is best to slice the stems in winter once the grass has disappeared to seed.
Andropogon is mostly used as a decorative ornamental grass on landscapes. Its pleasant spatial flowery outlook with silver seeds looks beautiful behind rays of the sun. The grass has been characterized into USDA zones 6-9.
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