Pollination Information for Chameleon Little Bluestem

The Chameleon Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon') grass is a native plant that typically grows in the central and eastern parts of the United States. It is a warm-season grass that produces seeds from late summer to early fall, and it is pollinated by wind.

The flowers of this grass are small and inconspicuous, and they are not particularly showy. The pollen is released from the flowers and carried by the wind to other flowers of the same species, where it fertilizes the ovules and forms seeds.

Since Chameleon Little Bluestem is a self-incompatible species, it cannot fertilize its own ovules. Cross-pollination with other plants is necessary for seed production.

The grass is also a host plant for various butterfly species, including the Gray Hairstreak, the Crossline Skipper, and the Dusted Skipper. These butterflies lay their eggs on the grass, and the larvae feed on the leaves. The flowers of the Chameleon Little Bluestem also provide nectar for various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects.

Overall, Chameleon Little Bluestem is an important native grass that provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, as well as contributing to the ecosystem through its role in pollination and seed production.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chameleon Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon')

What is Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon') is a cultivar of native prairie grass that is known for its colorful foliage and upright growth habit. It is a warm-season grass that is most commonly planted for its ornamental value.

What are the characteristics of Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem is a clump-forming grass that typically grows 2-3 feet tall and wide. Its foliage is blue-green in the spring and summer, but turns shades of red, orange, and purple in the fall. It produces tan seed heads in the late summer, which can provide interest throughout the winter. This grass is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.

What are the growing requirements for Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established, but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. This grass is adaptable to a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, but does not tolerate consistently wet soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

How should I plant Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem can be planted in the spring or fall. Prepare the planting area by removing any weeds and working in compost or other organic matter. Dig a hole that is slightly wider than the root ball, but no deeper. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil and water well. Space plants 2-3 feet apart.

How should I care for Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem is relatively low-maintenance. In the spring, cut back any dead or damaged foliage to make way for new growth. Fertilization is generally not necessary, but can be beneficial if the soil is particularly poor. In the fall, leave the seed heads on the plant to provide interest throughout the winter and to provide food for birds. In the spring, cut back the previous year's growth to make way for new growth.

Can Chameleon Little Bluestem be grown in containers?

Yes, Chameleon Little Bluestem can be grown in containers. Choose a large container with drainage holes and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Place the plant in the container so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Water the plant well and place it in a sunny location. Water as needed to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

What are some companion plants for Chameleon Little Bluestem?

Chameleon Little Bluestem pairs well with other native prairie plants, such as coneflowers (Echinacea), black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), and butterfly weed (Asclepias). It also contrasts nicely with the fine texture of ornamental grasses such as fountain grass (Pennisetum) or switchgrass (Panicum).

Planting & Care for Chameleon Little Bluestem

Chameleon Little Bluestem, also known as Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon', is a versatile native grass that adds texture, color, and movement to any garden or landscape. Here are some planting and care tips to help your Chameleon Little Bluestem thrive:

Planting:

• Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
• Dig a hole twice the size of the pot the plant came in.
• Remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the roots.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently.
• Water thoroughly.

Care:

• Water regularly during the first year to establish the plant.
• After the first year, Chameleon Little Bluestem is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering.
• Fertilizer is typically not necessary, but if desired, apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or damaged foliage.
• If the plant becomes too dense, it can be divided in the spring or fall.
• Chameleon Little Bluestem is generally pest-free and disease-resistant.