SafePlants

Cane Bluestem: A Versatile Native Grass

Bothriochloa barbinodis, commonly known as cane bluestem, is a perennial bunchgrass native to the Americas. This warm-season grass offers both ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal.

Considerations for Pets

• This is a grass, and may be tempting for pets that like to graze.

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Bothriochloa barbinodis (Lag.) Herter
• Common Names: Cane bluestem, cane beardgrass, feather bluestem, popotilloa
• Family: Poaceae (Grass Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Andropogon barbinodis
  • Andropogon perforatus
  • Bothriochloa barbinodis var. palmeri

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Americas, including most of South and Central America.
• Found in the United States from San Diego to Santa Barbara east to Oklahoma.
• Grows in sandy loam, gravel, loam, and calcareous soils.
• Often found on rocky slopes.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial bunchgrass with a height ranging from 2 to 4 feet (approximately 23 to 52 inches).
• Growth Form: Tall, erect, bunchgrass.
• Stems can be erect or bent at the base.
• Stem nodes are bearded.
• Leaves are grass-like, usually present, sheathing, and simple.
• Panicles are dense, often partly included in the upper leaves.
• Pale green foliage.

Ecological Role

• Fair forage for livestock.
• Provides good nesting cover for grassland birds.
• Used in revegetation projects.

Growth Habits

• Warm-season deciduous grass.
• Clumping growth habit, can grow to 4 feet tall and wide.
• Rapid growth rate, primarily during the Summer and Fall.
• Very drought tolerant.

Management

• Seeding rate: 40 (units not specified)
• Can be broadcast seeded.

Further Information

• USDA NRCS National Plant Data Center: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=BOBA3
• Discover Life: Discover Life’s page about Bothriochloa barbinodis