Andropogon gerardii Karl’s Cousin® (‘Nondhwr’)
Karl’s Cousin® Big Bluestem
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NEW! – Described as the ‘Karl Foerster’ of Big Bluestem, this exciting native cultivar was selected in the wild by Dave MacKenzie of Hortech. He chose it for its tight, upright, architectural habit, and then discovered its coloration was a beautiful bonus. Basal foliage starts out green-blue, with stems, leaves, and flowers turning shades of purple-blue as the season progresses. Carrying all the resilience and versatility of the species, this new selection resists flopping. Its narrow, upright habit makes it easy to pair with other plants and fit into tight spaces.
Zone
4-8
Growth Cycle
Warm
Features
- Native to North America
- Our Favorites
- Notable Fall Color
- Drought Tolerant
- Erosion control
- Meadow/Prairie Plantings
GROWER INFO & TIPS
- Growth rate: medium
- Grow in well-drained soil
- Water needs: keep evenly moist; avoid overwatering
- Possible pests: aphids, leaf spot, spider mites, rust
- Can be cut back, but do so before midsummer to avoid interfering with flowering.
- Grow in 1, 2, or 3-gallon containers; leave space between pots to prevent weak growth
- Overwintering: cold frame with clear poly; keep dry; can overwinter outdoors but water levels must be monitored
- Fertilizing: use a slow release, slow- to medium-rate fertilizer; avoid over fertilizing, which can cause weak growth, flopping, and reduced resistance to pests
*Note: please adapt these suggestions as needed to accommodate your local conditions.
LANDSCAPING INFO
- Tight, upright growth habit
- Rich, beautiful colors late in the season
- Provides structure and makes a great accent in mixed plantings
- Offers food and shelter for wildlife
- Its strong winter profile provides interest in the off season
- Big Bluestem performs best in low fertility soils with good drainage
