Smoke Signal Little Bluestem

Plant in spring or fall in well-drained to dry, lean soil, spacing 18–24 inches apart. Smoke Signal is a little bluestem variety with notably upright habit and exceptional fall color — the foliage turns rich, deep burgundy-red in autumn. It adapts to poor, dry, and sandy soils without special preparation. No soil amendment needed. Water regularly through the first season to establish.

Cut plants back to 4–6 inches in late winter before new growth begins. Smoke Signal's upright habit stays tidier than standard little bluestem without flopping. The blue summer color, deep burgundy fall color, and persistent seed heads through winter provide excellent three-season interest. No fertilizing needed in lean soils. An excellent, improved native grass for gardens where a more compact, upright little bluestem is preferred.