Standing Ovation Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'

Nature Hills Nursery

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem Transforms from Blue-Green Summer Foliage to Burgundy-Red Fall Colors
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-8
Grows 3 ft Tall, 2 ft Wide
Showy Green Blooms From Late Summer to Early Fall
Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant, Drought Tolerant

$58⁸³

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This grass needs full sun to thrive, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can survive in partial shade, it will lose its tight, upright habit and become floppy, and the vibrant blue and fall colors will be less intense.
Soil: Plant in average to poor, well-drained soil; it handles sandy, rocky, and clay soils well as long as they don't hold standing water. Avoid amending with rich compost or manure, as highly fertile soil causes the stems to grow weak and flop over.

Watering Requirements

Water consistently during the first growing season to help the root system establish, checking moisture levels weekly. Once established, this grass is highly drought-tolerant and prefers dry to medium conditions; overwatering will lead to weak growth and potential root issues.

Pruning Tips

Standing Ovation is a warm-season grass that should be cut back in late winter or very early spring before new green shoots appear. Use shears to cut the entire clump down to about 3 or 4 inches above the ground. This removes the previous year's dried foliage and allows the fresh blue-green blades to emerge cleanly without obstruction.

Fertilizer Needs

Avoid fertilizing this plant, as it performs best in lean soils. Applying fertilizer, especially high-nitrogen formulas, will encourage rapid, weak growth that ruins the plant's signature upright posture. If you must amend the soil, a light top-dressing of compost in spring is sufficient.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Native, Fall Color/Interest, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Heat Tolerant, Salt Tolerant, Slopes/Erosion Control, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	3 ft
Width	2 ft
Watering Needs	Low
Preferred Soil	Chalky, Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Compact, Upright
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Fall, Summer
Flower Color	Green
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Grass
Botanical Name	Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'
Species	scoparium
Cultivar	Standing Ovation
Class	Poales
Does Not Ship To	AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, PR, NV, OR, WA

Show Stopping Standing Ovation Little Bluestem

Adaptable Ornamental Grass
North American Prairie Native
Strong, Upright Growth Habit
Blue Green Summer Foliage
Outstanding Fall Colors
Great Snack for Birds
Summer Heat and Drought Tolerant
Strong Winter Presence
Low Maintenance and Deer Resistant

When it comes to selecting ornamental grasses there is something about native grasses that steal the show. From natural survivability adapted for the region to a grower's contribution to the local environment, it's hard to go wrong with local selections.

The Standing Ovation Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation') is a fine example. The native plant Little Bluestem has grown in prairies of the United States for decades and decades, and as such has adapted to the conditions typical of the rolling plains.

The Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is a warm-season grass, waiting until later in spring to start greening for its growing season. This grass loves heat and is very tolerant of dry soil while soaking in unrestricted full sun.

The seed heads of this plant developing are a cause for celebration! Not only does it add attractive texture to your garden, but the seeds are also a great source of food for local birds who will come flocking for a snack!

One of the more interesting qualities of this ornamental grass is the wide variety of foliage colors based on the current season. In the summer it earns the name Standing Ovation Little Bluestem with tall, clustered growth of blue-green blades of grass with a deep purple base.

As summer comes to an end, however, the cold of the season starts to bring out brilliant fiery colored foliage through fall. Winter to early spring views benefits from this little bluestem as well! Just wait till you see this ornamental accented by a fresh sheet of untouched snow.

Another defining feature of the Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is its tight, upright natural growth pattern. The clean growth of this ornamental grass makes it appear uniform with very little attention from you required!

This attractive grass adds texture and interest to your gardens all season long. Order yours today!

How to Use Standing Ovation Little Bluestem in the Landscape

The Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is the ornamental grass to border perennial gardens.This selection of the native Little Bluestem was made because of its fantastic upright form that does not flop but makes an excellent hedge, backdrop or more formal application because of the form.

Like many types of grass, this Little Bluestem grass also contributes to the environment as a form of erosion control.

The dense, deep growing root system of this ornamental plant can be grown on hills surrounding your yard to add some appeal to the landscape while preventing the soil from displacing over time.

The compact upward growth of this grass makes it a perfect fit for solo planting! This makes it a great addition to many island planting methods, or even just a different take on planter and container plants!

If allowed to grow freely the height of the Standing Ovation Little Bluestem can rival that of some low-growing privacy shrubs. Use this to your advantage and plant several of these grass shoots in sequence to create a heat-tolerant border to your paths or plant beds.

#ProPlantTips for Care

When first planting your Little Bluestem it is best to wait until either mid-spring or late summer/early fall. This gives the plant time to settle into its new home before frost or intense heat starts to damage new growths.

The Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but does not fare well in heavy moisture. Refrain from overwatering your grass, and if possible, plant in lower-fertility soil.

This Little Bluestem species is particularly susceptible to lack of sunlight. It takes very little shade to stunt this grass's growth and development, so be sure this ornamental is planted with plenty of potential for full sun.

In early spring, the old foliage and flowering stems should be cut down do just a few inches each year just before the new growth begins. If your clump has gotten too wide, a portion can be spaded out from the mother plant leaving a portion in the ground and removing a chunk to another part of your landscape.

You shouldn't have to worry about your Standing Ovation Little Bluestem much as your typical plant. Adapted to many environments from seaside to arid climates, this grass is even deer and pest resistant!

For an attractive and hardy addition to your garden look no further than the Standing Ovation Little Bluestem. Order yours today from Nature Hills!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Standing Ovation Little Bluestem grow well in my planting zone (e.g., zone 3-9)?

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem thrives in USDA zones 3-9, making it adaptable to most North American climates. As a native prairie grass, it's naturally equipped to handle extreme temperature swings and challenging conditions. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best results.

How much sun does Standing Ovation Little Bluestem need?

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem thrives in full sun and actually prefers unrestricted sunlight. This native prairie grass loves heat and performs best with maximum sun exposure. Plant it in your sunniest spot for optimal growth and vibrant seasonal color changes.

Is Standing Ovation Little Bluestem drought-tolerant once established?

Yes, Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is extremely drought-tolerant once established. This native prairie grass naturally adapted to dry conditions over decades in the Great Plains. It thrives in full sun with minimal water after the first growing season.

When should I cut back or trim Standing Ovation Little Bluestem?

Cut back Standing Ovation Little Bluestem in late winter to early spring before new growth emerges. This warm-season grass provides attractive winter interest with its upright structure, so leave it standing through winter. Trim to 4-6 inches above ground level in March.

Where can I buy Standing Ovation Little Bluestem online or locally?

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is readily available through online nurseries and many local garden centers. This native prairie grass ships well and establishes easily in most regions. Check with your local nursery first, or shop at Nature Hills for guaranteed quality plants.

Is Standing Ovation Little Bluestem deer or rabbit resistant?

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem is deer resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas with browsing pressure. As a native prairie grass, its tough foliage naturally deters deer from feeding on it. Plant it in problem areas where deer damage other perennials.

What does Standing Ovation Little Bluestem look like in fall and winter?

In fall, Standing Ovation Little Bluestem transforms from blue-green summer foliage to brilliant fiery colors. The grass maintains its strong upright structure through winter, creating an attractive accent against snow. Leave the decorative seed heads standing until late winter for continued visual interest and bird food.

Standing Ovation Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation'