Red October Big Bluestem Grass

With its spectacular foliage, Red October Big Bluestem Grass will never fail to delight. Andropogon gerardii 'Red October', as it is botanically named, is a tough perennial grass that will add color and movement wherever it is grown. New growth emerges in spring and turns deep green in summer before taking on a red and purple hue over the winter and fall. If that wasn’t enough, it also develops small red blooms in late summer. 

Attracting a wide range of songbirds and other insects, this ornamental grass is a wildlife magnet. Developing a clump-forming habit up to 6 feet high, Red October Big Bluestem Grass is ideal for growing in drifts, naturalizing, or even growing in a large container. As a drought-tolerant perennial, it is easy to care for and even ignored by hungry deer. This grass is a native plant that once dominated the American Prairies.

Red October Big Bluestem Grass Care

To bring out its vivid color, the Red October Big Bluestem Grass should be grown in full sun and in free-draining soil. Even though it is considered drought tolerant, frequent watering is necessary to help it become established. Being able to cope with poor soils means that any extra fertilizing is rarely necessary. Any wet sites or those that are prone to waterlogging are best avoided as this may cause its stems to flop.

The Red October Big Bluestem Grass requires little ongoing care. However, come spring, the previous year’s foliage can be cut back and removed to make way for the new season’s growth. If grown in a large planter, some watering will be required during the summer months to prevent it from completely drying out.

Red October Big Bluestem Grass Spacing

Over time, the Red October Big Bluestem Grass can reach 4-6 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It is commonly planted in drifts for the greatest effect, spacing plants 20 - 30 inches apart.

Red October Big Bluestem Grass Information