Species PlantsBig Bluestem

Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii

CommonPlant
Illustration of Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Big Bluestem is the iconic grass of the tallgrass prairie, historically forming seas of vegetation 6–8 feet tall across the central plains. Its distinctive three-pronged seed head gives it the nickname 'turkey foot.' It is a cornerstone of prairie ecosystems, supporting insects, birds, bison, and countless other species.

Habitat
Tallgrass prairies, open savannas, and dry upland meadows
Diet
Seeds eaten by prairie birds; foliage grazed by bison, elk, and deer
How common
Common

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