Remove all packaging straight away. Check the compost and water thoroughly if dry, then place the plants outdoors in a sheltered position or in a greenhouse.
'Chameleon'
little bluestem
Schizachyrium 'Chameleon' is a compact little bluestem with a rather clever way of changing its outfit as the season progresses. Forming a neat, clump-shaped mound, this ornamental perennial grass begins in spring and summer with slender blades striped vertically in fresh green and white, giving borders a crisp, luminous quality. As cooler weather and stronger late-season light arrive, the foliage of Schizachyrium 'Chameleon' shifts into beautiful shades of pink, purple and burgundy, as though it has been quietly planning a grand finale all along. Discovered as a chance seedling in France, Schizachyrium 'Chameleon' brings texture, movement and painterly colour to planting schemes.
Its modest stature makes Schizachyrium 'Chameleon' especially useful in sunny borders, prairie-style plantings, gravel gardens and contemporary containers, where it adds structure without overwhelming its companions. From late summer onwards, subtle purple-red to purplish brown flower spikes rise above the foliage, later becoming fluffy silver seedheads that catch the low autumn light beautifully. Plant this little bluestem in well-drained soil and an open, sunny position to encourage the richest colouring and strongest form. It looks exquisite beside echinacea, salvia, sedum and airy perennials, offering contrast without clamour. Low-maintenance, elegant and full of seasonal intrigue, Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon' is a grass with impeccable timing.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check each plant’s specifications. Hardy perennials can remain outdoors, while half-hardy and tender varieties should be kept frost-free until the risk of frost has passed.
Plant within a month, preferably sooner. Choose a suitable position, remove weeds and loosen the soil thoroughly, adding compost or well-rotted organic matter where needed.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and plant with the root ball level with the soil surface. Firm gently, water well and add a plant label.
Water regularly until established and whenever the soil feels dry during spring and summer. Feed container-grown plants fortnightly during active growth to encourage healthy flowering.
- Botanical name
- Schizachyrium scoparium 'Chameleon'ᴾᴮᴿ
- Flower colour
- Purple, brown
- Established height
- 50-70cm
- Established spread
- 50-70cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Spreading
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green, white, pink, purple
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant size
- 9cm root ball
- Plant spacing
- 9 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Free draining - Soil type
-
Sandy
Loam
Clay
Loam-based compost
Stony - Suitable for
-
Rock gardens
Borders
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade
Dappled shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 2-3 years
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.