Red October big bluestem
Andropogon gerardi 'Red October'
USDA zones4 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to wet soil
Sizeup to 6 feet tallup to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Arching
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Burgundy red
- Soil types
- Sand, clay
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
'Red October' big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi 'Red October') is a grass for rain gardens, naturalized areas, winter interest, and pollinator gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to wet, sandy or clay soil. It grows in an arching habit up to 72 inches tall. Deer tend to browse other plants first. It is drought tolerant and salt tolerant, and it attracts butterflies, bees, and birds.
Pairs well with Wild bergamot, Black chokeberry, and Royal fern.