Big bluestem, (Andropogon gerardii) is a dominant grass of tallgrass prairies in the Midwest. It forms deep-rooted clumps and is best used for naturalizing or soil retention. When in bloom, the flowering stems reach to 6 feet or taller. The flowers are 3- to 5-part spikelets that resemble turkey feet. The foliage and stems have a bluish cast, and in the fall they turn reddish-purple.