Grasses

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Blue Paradise'

Blue Paradise little bluestem

Prairie Winds® ‘Blue Paradise’ little bluestem showing its blue summer foliage. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners.

Silvery-blue summer stems form an upright column, then turn rich wine-purple in fall. Fine seed heads add texture above the foliage as the season ends. This native-species selection suits sunny prairie-style plantings and dry borders, providing a strong vertical accent without the bulk of a large maiden grass.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Mature size: 3–3½ ft. tall × 2 ft. wide
Water: Low to average once established
Hardiness: USDA 3–9
Bloom: Late summer to early fall.

Sizes & prices

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Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Generally resistant; not browse-proof.
Drought: Tolerant once established.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Native range

Native range / parentage: Cultivar of a North American native grass. Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
Tristate native status: Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.

Seasonal interest

Habit: Clumping, warm-season grass.

Growing & care

Soil: Well-drained soil; avoid heavy fertilizer.
Pruning: Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth.

Sources & photo credits

Walters Gardens

publications.ca.uky.edu

Photo: Proven Winners / Proven Winners garden center promotional photo permission; resized and converted to WebP · Proven Winners garden center promotional photo permission

Image notes: Prairie Winds® ‘Blue Paradise’ little bluestem showing its blue summer foliage. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed October 1, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.