Bluejoint: A Hardy Native Grass for Wet Gardens and Natural Landscapes
If you’ve been searching for a robust native grass that thrives in those soggy spots where other plants struggle, let me introduce you to bluejoint (Calamagrostis canadensis). This unassuming perennial grass might not win any beauty contests, but it’s a workhorse that deserves a spot in the right garden setting.
What is Bluejoint?
Bluejoint is a native perennial grass that’s as tough as they come. Growing up to nearly 5 feet tall, this rhizomatous grass spreads slowly to form colonies, making it perfect for naturalizing larger areas. Don’t expect flashy flowers – this grass keeps things simple with inconspicuous green blooms in late spring that mature to yellow seeds by summer’s end.
Where Does Bluejoint Call Home?
This grass is a true North American native with an impressive range. You’ll find bluejoint growing naturally from Alaska down through Canada and across most of the lower 48 states, with populations extending to Greenland and even St. Pierre and Miquelon. It grows in states spanning from coast to coast, including Alberta, British Columbia, Alaska, and stretching all the way to Maine, Florida, and California.
Why You Might Want Bluejoint in Your Garden
Here’s where bluejoint really shines – it’s practically tailor-made for those challenging wet spots in your landscape:
- Wetland warrior: This grass loves moisture and can handle everything from consistently damp soil to seasonal flooding
- Wildlife friendly: Small mammals and ground-dwelling birds rely on bluejoint for 5-10% of their diet
- Low maintenance: Once established, it pretty much takes care of itself
- Native credentials: Supporting local ecosystems while solving landscape challenges
- Cold hardy: Survives temperatures down to -33°F, making it suitable for USDA zones 3-8
The Perfect Garden Settings
Bluejoint isn’t the right choice for every garden, but it’s perfect for specific situations:
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Pond and stream edges
- Prairie restorations and naturalized meadows
- Wet meadow plantings
- Areas with seasonal flooding
- Large-scale native plantings
This grass works best in informal, naturalized settings rather than formal garden beds. Think prairie restoration rather than perennial border.
Growing Conditions That Make Bluejoint Happy
Bluejoint has some specific preferences that you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Moisture: Prefers consistently moist to wet soils – drought tolerance is low
- Soil type: Adapts well to medium and fine-textured soils, but skip the sandy spots
- pH range: Flexible with soil pH from 4.5 to 8.0
- Sun exposure: Needs full sun – shade intolerant
- Climate: Requires at least 102 frost-free days and annual precipitation between 14-65 inches
Planting and Care Tips
Getting bluejoint established is straightforward:
- Propagation: Grow from seed or plant sprigs – it’s routinely available commercially
- Seeding rate: Plant 3,450-7,000 plants per acre for large installations
- Establishment: Seeds have medium vigor, so be patient during the first year
- Maintenance: Minimal once established – the moderate growth rate keeps it manageable
- Spreading: Spreads slowly via rhizomes, so it won’t take over your garden overnight
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Before you fall head over heels for bluejoint, consider these limitations:
- Not suitable for dry gardens – it needs consistent moisture
- Limited ornamental appeal – the flowers and foliage are pretty plain
- Best for larger spaces rather than small garden beds
- Takes time to establish and show its full potential
- May not provide significant cover for wildlife despite being a food source
The Bottom Line
Bluejoint isn’t going to be the star of your flower border, but it’s exactly what you need for challenging wet sites where you want a low-maintenance native solution. If you’re working on a rain garden, restoring a prairie, or dealing with a chronically soggy area, this tough grass could be your new best friend. Just remember – right plant, right place is the key to success, and bluejoint’s place is definitely on the wetter side of the garden spectrum.
