About

Andropogon gerardii 'Red Arrow' is a robust, clump-forming grass that features arching, flat green foliage, transitioning to a bronzed hue in the fall. The plant reaches heights of up to 1.8 meters, displaying sturdy, upright stems. In late summer, it produces multiple racemes, each approximately 10 centimeters long, adorned with brown-red spikelets that deepen in color as autumn progresses.

About the genus

Andropogon consists of grasses that can be either annual or perennial. They feature narrow leaves and bear small flowers in simple or branched racemes, frequently adorned with noticeable awns. Flowering typically occurs during the summer or autumn months.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Prairie planting, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in light, sandy, well-drained soil, in full sun, in a position protected from excessive winter wet; for more advice, see ornamental grasses cultivation
Pruning
Cut down old stems to the ground in early spring before new growth begins
Propagation
Propagate by division from mid-spring to early summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free