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Public Plant Profile

Red October Big Bluestem

Andropogon gerardii 'Red October'

Category: Grass • Big Bluestem

Red October Big Bluestem is a stunning grass with vibrant fall color, ideal for mass plantings and wildlife gardens.

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Mature Height: 4-6 feet

Mature Width: 2-3 feet

Bloom Color: Brown, Gold

Bloom Time: Late Summer to Fall

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-9

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Red October Big Bluestem is a warm-season grass known for its striking red and purple foliage in the fall. It provides excellent texture and movement in the garden, making it a popular choice for ornamental landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Prefers moderate moisture but can tolerate drought conditions.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil with good moisture retention. Adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

mass plantingspecimenaccent

Special Features

Attractive fall colordrought-tolerantwildlife-friendly

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for naturalistic gardens and prairie-style landscapes. Provides excellent height and texture.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Red October Big Bluestem may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Red October Big Bluestem a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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