Posted: May 18, 2026
Annually selected by members of the Perennial Plant Association (PPA), the 2026 Perennial Plant of the Year® is Andropogon gerardii ‘Blackhawks.’ This exceptional cultivar, commonly known as Blackhawks big bluestem, stands out for its striking appearance and resilience once established.
Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' foliage emerges deep green in spring and ultimately develops into rich purple to near-black hues by autumn.
Big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), often referred to as the "monarch of the prairie," is a tallgrass perennial native to North America's eastern and central prairies. It derives its genus name from the Greek words "andros" meaning man, and "pogon" meaning beard, referring to the long white hairs on the lower part of the leaves where they attach to the stems.
Recognized for its ecological significance and ornamental beauty, bluestem has long been valued both in restoration projects and garden designs. For 2026 the Perennial Plant Association has selected Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' as the plant of the year. ‘Blackhawks’ exemplifies how breeding and cultivar development can enhance a plant's aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ecological functions in modern gardens.
The original seedling appeared from seed of the cultivar 'Red October'. The difference between the two are size and color. 'Blackhawks' is shorter and develops purple to black tones in mid-summer while 'Red October' turns shades of red.
'Blackhawks' cultivar reaches five feet in height and two feet in width and maintains a strong vertical habit, making it a striking addition to any garden. Its foliage undergoes a stunning seasonal transformation: emerging deep green in spring, transitioning to reddish-purple at the leaf tips in mid-summer, and ultimately developing rich purple to near-black hues by autumn. Spiky inflorescences, often likened to "turkey feet", appear in midsummer, rising above the foliage and adding structural interest to landscapes. The wind blowing through the foliage creates a rustling sound that brings another dimension of interest to the garden.
Beyond its ornamental value, 'Blackhawks' big bluestem serves as habitat for birds and butterflies. Its dense clumps provide nesting sites, and its leaves support the larval development of several skipper butterfly species, many of which are endangered. The seed is eaten by songbirds and game birds such as grouse and pheasants. The cultivar's deep root system ensures high drought tolerance and contributes to soil stabilization, making it suitable for areas prone to erosion. Adaptable across USDA hardiness zones 3–9, 'Blackhawks' requires minimal maintenance once established.
Plant big bluestem in full sun and average garden soil with good drainage. Do not fertilize but provide moderate water until the root system is established. Cut the old foliage and seed heads down to the ground in early spring.
'Blackhawks' can be purchased online from American Meadows. A 3-inch pot is $16. Other growers, like Monrovia, offer larger-sized pots up to $80. Local nurseries may carry it but to be sure, call now and get on their order list.
For gardeners and landscape designers, choosing a cultivar like 'Blackhawks' ensures a harmonious balance among native plants, ornamental appeal, and practical garden management. While it is not a straight species of bluestem, like many cultivars of natives, or "nativars", it was bred for traits that improve garden performance.
Nativars often address challenges inherent to native species, making them more suitable for landscape use. Wild big bluestem can exceed six to eight feet, with a spreading or "floppy" habit. 'Blackhawks' features a more compact, upright stature, ensuring it integrates harmoniously into smaller borders without overwhelming neighboring perennials. Plants are selected for their superior leaf coloration. The dark purple to near-black foliage of 'Blackhawks' provides dramatic visual contrast throughout the growing season, superior to that of the species.
'Blackhawks' exhibits exceptional drought tolerance and resistance to common pests and diseases, reducing maintenance requirements and improving survival in urban or poor soils. It provides food and habitat and can be safely incorporated into garden ecosystems without aggressively encroaching on surrounding plantings.
Dianne Machesney is a Penn State Master Gardener. This volunteer program supports the outreach mission of Penn State Extension and provides research-based information on best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship. For more information, contact the Penn State Extension of Allegheny County at alleghenymg@psu.edu or 412-482-3476
