Overview
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' is a clump-forming grass like in the genus Andropogon, part of the Poaceae family, with linear leaves foliage. Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass.
About
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' is a clump-forming ornamental grass cultivar within the genus Andropogon, part of the Poaceae family. It features linear leaves and thrives best in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect. This grass prefers well-drained, neutral loam soil and is hardy to UK zone H4. It is notable for its interest throughout spring, summer, and autumn. Propagation can be achieved by division or seed.
About the genus
Andropogon is a widespread genus of plants in the grass family, native to much of Asia, Africa, and the Americas, as well as Southern Europe and various oceanic islands.
Wikipedia contributors, "Andropogon", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Andropogon
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Andropogon
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Linear leaves
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Andropogon gerardii 'Red October'
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Good
- Disease resistance
- Good
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Andropogon gerardii 'Red October'?
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' need?
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' hardy in the UK?
Andropogon gerardii 'Red October' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Andropogon gerardii 'Red October'?
Division, seed.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Knowing When to Repot (and When to Leave Well Alone)How to tell when a houseplant genuinely needs repotting, when to leave it be, the best time of year to do it, and why an oversized pot does more harm than good.
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
Last updated