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Andropogon gerardii

Big Blue Stem

Plant Type: Ornamental Grass

A tall impressive American prairie grass appreciated for its handsome multiseasonal foliage, drought tolerance, and adaptability to a wide range of soils and growing conditions. New foliage emerges as an attractive gray to blue green, matures to green with hints of red in summer and eventually changes to bronzy-red in autumn. Purple flower stems arise tall above the foliage in fall for added interest and both persist through winter with an attractive tawny color. Plants may reach 8' with flower stalks.

SKU Size
ANRGED02G #2
ANRGED03G #3

Mature Height:

5-8 ft

Mature Spread:

2-3 ft

Zone:

4-9

Bloom Color:

Purple, Red

Additional Information About Andropogon gerardii

Andropogon gerardii once dominated the American prairies and meadows of the Midwest to the East Coast.

Growing & Maintenance Tips:

Cut stems late in winter before new growth appears. Too much moisture will cause plants to topple over.

Andropogon gerardii Characteristics & Attributes:

Ornamental Grass
Ornamental Grass
Dried Flower/Foliage
Dried Flower/Foliage
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Mass Planting
Mass Planting
Heat Tolerant
Heat Tolerant
Native to Northeastern US
Native to Northeastern US
Drought Tolerant
Drought Tolerant
Deer Resistant
Deer Resistant
Full Sun
Full Sun
Average Water
Average Water
Dry Soil
Dry Soil
Attributes
Groupings
Erosion Control
Disease Resistant
Naturalizing
Screening
Border or Bed
Foliage Color
Red
Blue
Gray
Green
Habit
Upright
Clump-forming
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Fall
Late Summer
Winter
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Spring
Winter
Summer
Season of Interest (Fruit)
Winter
Fall
Soil Moisture
Well Drained