Chameleon Little Bluestem

Chameleon Little Bluestem is a compact native-grass cultivar with green-and-white striped foliage that changes dramatically through the season. Pink and purple tones develop in late summer, followed by burgundy-red flower and seed heads in fall. Its tight upright habit stays smaller than many little bluestems, fitting easily into borders, containers, and mass plantings. Plant in full sun and lean, well-drained soil to keep the stems sturdy and the color strong. Available for local pickup from Towns Edge Nursery.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon' PP31,339
• Light: Full sun
• USDA zones: 3–9
• Mature size: 1½–2 ft tall × 1½–2 ft wide
• Foliage: Deciduous; green-and-white striped foliage blushes pink and purple
• Flowers / feature: Burgundy-red flower and seed heads
• Bloom / interest season: Late summer to fall
• Water: Low once established; avoid rich or wet soil
• Growth habit: Compact, upright, dense clumping native grass cultivar
• Landscape uses: Sunny borders, prairie gardens, mass plantings, containers, erosion control
• Deer tolerance: Generally deer resistant, not deer-proof

Plant size and performance vary with climate, soil, pruning and care.