Variegated Little Bluestem

‘Chameleon’ is a compact cultivar of little bluestem with a clear seasonal change in foliage color. Its leaves are striped green and cream in spring and early summer, then flush pink and light purple later in the season; the [plant patent description](https://patents.justia.com/patent/PP31339) records the named selection and its observed dimensions, while [Hoffmann Nursery](https://hoffmannursery.com/plants/details/schizachyrium-scoparium-chameleon-pp31339) lists it at 1.5 feet without bloom and about 2 feet in bloom, for zones 3–9. ## Seasonal interest This warm-season grass begins growth later than cool-season grasses, then brings striped foliage through summer and soft pink-purple tones in late summer and fall. Its narrow flower stems rise above the foliage in early fall, and the clump remains upright into winter. ## Placement and growing conditions Use it in a sunny border, prairie-style planting, erosion-control area, or green roof. Plant in well-drained soil; Hoffmann lists dry moisture conditions and notes that excess water or fertilizer, especially with too little sun, can make growth floppy. Allow room for a small upright clump about 18–24 inches tall with flowering stems. ## Maintenance Leave the winter stems for structure, then cut the plant back in late winter before new growth appears. The breeder’s patent records a small, upright plant; Hoffmann describes the cultivar as low maintenance and drought tolerant.