Andropogon 'Red October'

Andropogon gerardii 'Red October': Red October Big Bluestem

Blazing with scarlet intensity in autumn, Andropogon 'Red October' is a show-stopping selection of native Big Bluestem prized for its vibrant fall colour and upright habit. Its slender, blue-green summer blades take on deep burgundy tones by late summer, then erupt into glowing crimson as nights cool. Standing tall with bronzed seed heads and strong vertical lines, this grass brings movement, contrast, and lasting structure from summer through winter. Bold yet deeply rooted in native ecology, it’s a landscape standout with prairie soul.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 150–180 cm
• Spread: 60–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Reddish-bronze seed heads
• Flowering Period: Late summer to fall
• Foliage: Blue-green turning burgundy, then bright red in autumn
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Average to dry, well-drained soil; drought and clay tolerant

Uses and Benefits: 'Red October' is ideal for adding height, motion, and seasonal drama to sunny borders, prairie gardens, and naturalized meadows. Its fiery fall colour rivals that of deciduous shrubs, while its deep roots improve soil health and drought resilience. Strong stems hold upright through winter, offering cover for wildlife and visual interest in all seasons. Deer resistant and virtually maintenance-free, it's a striking anchor for pollinator-focused plantings.

Companion Plants: Pair the vivid fall blaze of Andropogon 'Red October' with the wine-red daisies of Echinacea 'Ruby Star', the sunny, green-eyed blooms of Rudbeckia 'Prairie Sun', and the golden, cascading plumes of Solidago 'Fireworks'. This trio creates a bold, high-contrast prairie vignette rich in pollinator value and autumn brilliance.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overly rich soils to maintain upright form. Cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Drought tolerant once established, and division is rarely needed but can be done in spring if necessary.

History: Introduced by Intrinsic Perennial Gardens, 'Red October' was selected for its outstanding fall foliage and sturdy stature. As a cultivar of the native Andropogon gerardii, it combines ornamental appeal with the resilience and ecological importance of tallgrass prairie species.

Final Thoughts: With its scarlet finish and stately form, Andropogon 'Red October' sets the late-season garden ablaze. It’s a powerful plant that unites native heritage with ornamental impact—fiery, resilient, and unforgettable.