Sand bluestem facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sand bluestem |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Andropogon
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| Species: |
hallii
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Andropogon hallii, also known as sand bluestem, is a tall grass. It is a type of perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. This grass grows in clumps or tufts. It can grow very tall, sometimes reaching over 2 meters (7 feet) high!
Sand bluestem is part of the grass family, called Poaceae. It helps form a strong layer of grass and roots in the soil, like a natural carpet. This helps to hold the soil in place.
About Sand Bluestem
Sand bluestem is a special kind of grass. It is a bunchgrass, which means it grows in a clump. It does not spread out like some other grasses. This grass is very strong and can grow quite tall. It can reach up to 2.1 meters (7 feet) when conditions are good.
Where Sand Bluestem Grows
This grass is native to North America. This means it naturally grows there. You can find it from the Mississippi River all the way west to the Rocky Mountains. It also grows from Canada down to Chihuahua, Mexico.
Sand bluestem likes to grow in sandy soils. It grows best in places that do not get a lot of rain. It thrives in areas that get less than 76 centimeters (30 inches) of rain each year.
Why Sand Bluestem is Important
Sand bluestem is very useful. It is a high-quality forage for farm animals like cattle. Forage is food that animals eat directly from the field. Animals find it tasty, which means it has good palatability. However, it cannot be grazed too much or it will not grow back well.
This grass is also important for wild animals. It provides browse for wildlife. Browse is the leaves, twigs, and shoots that animals eat. Birds also benefit from sand bluestem. They can eat its seeds. The tall grass also provides a safe place for birds to build their nests.
