Grass, Big Bluestem, Red October

Andropogon gerardii 'Red October'

Height: 4-6ft
Spread: 2-3ft
Zone: 4-9
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Time/Color: September-October, Purple/Red
Uses: Naturalizing, screen, erosion control
Maintenance: Low
Other: Fall color, deer resistant

This native prairie grass is recognized by its colorful flattened blades that change throughout the seasons. Blades are grey/blue-green in early spring, changing to dark green with reddish tinges in summer, and once cold weather sets in, the blades become fiery red with purple tones. 'Red October' is the perfect grass for prairie gardens and other areas where naturalizing can happen. It can reseed itself, however it tends to be clump forming; spreading via its root system. Tolerant of most growing conditions (drought and wet sites) and is deer resistant. 'Red October' is primarily distinguished from the species by its slightly shorter height, deeper green summer foliage and brilliant scarlet red fall color. 

Andropogon gerardii is an Iowa native.