Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' is a striking ornamental grass prized for its tall upright form and dramatic late season color change. This cultivar emerges blue green in spring, turns deep green with red tips in summer, and ignites into a brilliant scarlet red by autumn often holding color into early winter. Its strong stems make it resistant to flopping and it serves as an excellent vertical accent in native plantings, meadows, and large perennial borders.
Height & Spread: 60 - 72 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Tolerant of a range of soils, including clay and sandy types, as long as drainage is adequate
Watering Needs: Low once established; drought tolerant
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer due to tough foliage
Native Status
This cultivar originates from the native Big Bluestem, Andropogon gerardii, which is indigenous to most of North America. 'Red October' retains the ecological benefits of the species while offering enhanced ornamental value.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides nesting material and fall seeds for sparrows, finches, and other grassland songbirds.
Beneficial Insects
- Hosts beneficial predatory insects in the lower foliage clumps and stems, including beetles and parasitic wasps that overwinter in the base of the plant.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow for full vertical development and airflow in dense plantings.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal as a tall backdrop or specimen in native gardens, prairie restorations, or large borders. Combines well with autumn blooming perennials and other tall grasses for bold seasonal displays.
Companion Plants
- Symphyotrichum novae-angliae 'Purple Dome' - Late blooming asters add rich purple contrast at mid height beneath towering Andropogon stems.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds textural contrast and similar seasonal color shifts on a smaller scale.
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Mountain Mint) - Silvery bracts and aromatic foliage brighten the base and attract pollinators.
- Eupatorium maculatum 'Gateway' - Tall mauve plumes add mass and attract pollinators while echoing the upright habit of the grass.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Bright yellow blooms arch outward in late summer playing off the red tones of Andropogon’s fall display.