Protected Series:
Zone: 3RED OCTOBER BIG BLUESTEM
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' is a spectacular native root cultivar of Big Bluestem, famous for having some of the most vivid autumnal colors of any ornamental grass. While its cousin 'Blackhawks' leans toward deep purples and blacks, 'Red October' lives up to its name by shifting from deep green with red highlights in the spring to a brilliant, fiery scarlet after the first frost. Growing to a majestic 5 to 6 feet tall with a narrow, 2-foot spread, it maintains a strong upright habit that adds significant vertical interest and movement to the landscape. In late summer, it produces distinctive three-pronged seed heads that resemble a "turkey foot," which also take on reddish hues, providing a beautiful textural contrast against the changing foliage.
For the best color and health, 'Red October' should be planted in full sun; inadequate light will cause the stems to lose their vibrant red tint and potentially flop over. It is a rugged, low-maintenance plant that thrives in average to lean, well-drained soils and is highly adaptable to both dry conditions and occasional standing water. Maintenance is minimal: simply leave the foliage standing through the winter to enjoy its winter silhouette and provide habitat for birds, then cut the stalks back to about 4-6 inches in late winter or early spring just before new growth begins to emerge.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
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KEY:
con = containers - available now
Galena (Ready to Go!) Plants that are above ground and available now
Additional (More Plants!) Plants are not in Galena, but in a remote location which is easily accessible. Call your rep for info. They will not be in the Shop.
Dig (In-Ground Field) Plants are still in the ground. Please call your sales rep to place a Dig Order. They will not be in the Shop.
Soon (Coming Soon) Plants are not quite ready but coming soon. Call your rep to inquire. They will not be in the Shop.
(BBnPOT - formerly known as GRSTART - are B&B put into a container - they are available now)
Available cultivars in this genus:
