ANNOUNCING THE 2026

PERENNIAL PLANT OF THE YEAR®

(Chosen by the Perennial Plant Association and all information from their report) 

Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’

(Blackhawks big bluestem)

Photography Credit: Midwest Groundcovers

This exceptional cultivar, commonly known as Blackhawks big bluestem, stands out for its striking appearance and resilience once established.

More compact than other big bluestem varieties, Blackhawks reaches a height of five feet and a width of two feet.  Its near-black coloration and strong, upright growth habit create a dramatic presence in fall gardens.  The dark green leaves emerge in spring, gradually transitioning to reddish-purple tips as summer progresses.  By August, the characteristic three-parted “turkeyfoot” inflorescences appear, and by September, the entire plant takes on a deep purple hue.

Richard Hawke, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Director of Ornamental Plant Research at the Chicago Botanic Garden, states that Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks’ is, “Notable for its compact size and sublimely dark burgundy leaves, stems, and flowers.  It quickly became a standout in the Chicago Botanic Garden’s ornamental grass trial.  It is the perfect choice to add color, texture, and movement to smaller gardens or landscapes where one of its bigger relatives would overwhelm.”

Beyond its ornamental appeal, Blackhawks big bluestem provides vital habitat.  Its dense foliage and sturdy stems offer nesting sites and cover for birds, while also serving as a larval food source for several skipper butterfly species.  Though it forms a single clump, it may reseed in the garden.

This cultivar is remarkably low-maintenance, with no major pest or disease concerns.  The only required care is cutting it back to the ground in late winter, like other ornamental grasses.  Once established, a process that may take a few years, Blackhawks becomes very drought tolerant. 

Bill Hall, Head Grower at Hoffman Nursery, states that, “This upright growing big Bluestem is slow to awaken from dormancy but is worth the wait. The dark purple foliage – which is near black – emerges clean and colors up quickly in the growing season.  Like most Andropogon grasses, ‘Blackhawks’ seems to be relatively free of foliar disease”.

For a stunning fall display, consider pairing Blackhawks big bluestem with companion plants like black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia spp.), tall stonecrops (Hylotelephium spp.), and asters (Symphyotrichum spp.).  Their contrasting textures and movements beautifully complement the bold, vertical spikes of Blackhawks.

Reprinted from Perennial Plant Association Inc.   (NOT AFFILIATED WITH GEORGIA PERENNIAL PLANT ASSOCIATION)

Prior Selections

Selections in color link to articles about the plant.

What's your experience with any of the above plants in our area?  Post in Comments below.  Have a lot to say about any, maybe you'd write an article for us?  Contact Us