Family: Poaceae

Andropogon glomeratus, commonly known as bushy bluestem, is a tall perennial grass native to North America. It is recognized by its dense, bushy flower clusters that give the plant its common name and make it easily distinguishable from other grasses. Bushy bluestem thrives in moist, open habitats such as roadsides, wetlands, and disturbed areas, where it can quickly establish and spread. In favorable conditions, it forms large stands that outcompete surrounding vegetation.

In Hawaiʻi, Andropogon glomeratus has become naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, and Hawaiʻi Island. Its ability to colonize open or disturbed landscapes raises concerns about its potential to alter native ecosystems and displace native plants. While it may provide some erosion control or forage value in its native range, in the islands it should be monitored closely to prevent further spread into sensitive habitats.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability and elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Grows in tropical climates
  
• Var. pumilus naturalized on Midway, Oahu, Hawaii and species on Kauai (Hawaiian Islands); also reported in Central Europe, South Africa, and Japan
  
• An aggressive, weedy self-seeder of disturbed habitats with potentially negative environmental impacts
  
• Other Andropogon species are invasive weeds
  
• Tolerates many soil types (if damp)
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Hybridizes with other Andropogon species
  
• Self-fertile
  
• Seeds dispersed by wind, water, as a potential contaminant, and intentionally cultivated
  
• Herbicides not very effective
  
• Tolerates cutting, mowing and grazing

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Provides forage for grazing animals
  
• Ornamental
  
• Prefers full sun (but tolerates part shade)
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively