Cane Bluestem
Bothriochloa barbinodis
Care
full sun
low
Fast, Medium, Slow; Tolerates a variety of soil types but best on calcareous, deep loams, or sandy loams.
2–4ft tall
Jan-Dec
Resistant
Friendly
Eastern Mojave Desert and interior desert scrub of southeastern California, below 3000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant cane bluestem in full sun in a location with good drainage - it thrives in fast to medium-draining soil and tolerates sandy loams, deep loams, and calcareous soils. Space plants to accommodate their mature height of 2 to 4 feet and upright clumping growth habit. Plant in fall or early spring to establish before summer heat arrives.
After Planting
Water weekly during your first summer to establish the plant, then dramatically reduce watering once established - cane bluestem is very drought resistant and needs only low water in subsequent years. As a warm-season grass, it may brown or go dormant in winter, which is normal; cut back dead stems in late winter before new growth emerges. The biggest mistake is overwatering after the first year, which can lead to problems in our Bay Area clay and slow-draining soils.
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Seeds consumed during migration and winter range occupation
Gleaning insects from grass during breeding season
Insects
Sap-feeding pest on grass; overwinters in mild California climates
Nymphs and adults feed on grass blades during growing season
Larvae may utilize grass as secondary host plant
Larvae feed on grass foliage during growing season