Little Bluestem, scientifically known as Schizachyrium scoparium, is a perennial bunchgrass that is native to North America, including the Great Plains region of the United States. Traveling through Nebraska, one can observe this remarkable plant thriving in its natural habitats, particularly in the tallgrass prairies that cover a significant portion of the state. Within the realm of events and festivals in Nebraska, a growing trend is the cultivation and promotion of Little Bluestem, not only for its ecological benefits but also for its potential uses as a crop and ornamental plant.

Little Bluestem is a key component of the tallgrass prairies in Nebraska, providing vital habitat and forage for various wildlife species, including the greater prairie-chicken. It is also a preferred food source for grazing livestock, such as cattle, due to its high nutritional value. Moreover, Little Bluestem serves as a soil stabilizer, reducing erosion and runoff by anchoring the soil with its intricate root system. Given its ecological significance, many farmers and conservationists in Nebraska have started cultivating Little Bluestem as a native crop.

One notable example of Little Bluestem cultivation in Nebraska can be seen at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's (UNL) Agricultural Research and Development Center (ARDC) in Ithaca. This research center has been experimenting with Little Bluestem as a potential biofuel crop, demonstrating its feasibility as a renewable energy source. By partnering with farmers, the ARDC aims to promote the large-scale cultivation of Little Bluestem as a native crop that can be harvested for biofuels while also maintaining the ecological integrity of the prairies.

Furthermore, the cultivation of Little Bluestem has extended to ornamental gardens and landscapes in Nebraska. Its striking blue-green foliage, fiery orange-red fall color, and manageable growth habit have made it an attractive option for gardeners and landscape architects seeking to incorporate native plants into their designs. The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, located in Lincoln, provides an excellent example of how Little Bluestem can be effectively integrated into landscaped gardens, adding to the beauty and biodiversity of the landscape.

The Little Bluestem cultivation movement has gained momentum in Nebraska due in part to the efforts of organizations such as the Nebraska Native Plant Society and the Nebraska Environmental Trust. These organizations have played a crucial role in promoting the ecological and economic benefits of Little Bluestem cultivation, encouraging farmers and gardeners to adopt this versatile native plant as a crop and ornamental.

Little Bluestem has also become a celebrated species in Nebraska's festivals and events, most notably the annual Wildflower Festival held at the Hitchcock Nature Center in Honey Creek. This festival showcases the diversity of wildflowers, including Little Bluestem, in the region, highlighting their importance in the local ecosystem and promoting conservation efforts.

Travelers exploring Nebraska during the fall season may witness the vibrant colors of Little Bluestem as it turns a deep orange-red hue. Visiting the Broken Kettle Grasslands Preserve in Westfield, managed by The Nature Conservancy, provides an opportunity to see Little Bluestem in its natural habitat, with guided tours available to explore the preserve's diverse plant and animal life.

As the trend of Little Bluestem cultivation continues to grow in Nebraska, it serves as a model for other states to promote the use of native plants in agriculture, landscaping, and conservation efforts.