Also known as Bluestem Grass · 336 saves
Andropogon
Andropogon, the genus most gardeners know as bluestem grass. We track 8 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 7 most-saved Andropogon varieties
Browse all 8 Andropogon varieties →
2 species of Andropogon
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Andropogon in Sow
Save the Andropogon you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Andropogon
Whats common across all Andropogon varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 8 most-grown of them.
The Andropogon year
- PruneFebruary75% of varieties
Cut old stems back to 4-6 inches before new growth emerges in late winter
- DivideMarch and April75% of varieties
Divide large, established clumps every 3-5 years in early spring
- PlantMarch, April, May, September and October50% of varieties
Plant container stock in spring or early fall
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead stems in late winter
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Prune dead foliage in early spring
Avoid
- Do not disturb roots during peak growing season
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization which can weaken stems
- Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
What goes wrong with Andropogon
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; no routine treatment needed |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled foliage | Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap |
| None significant | This plant is generally pest-free. | No action is typically required. |
| Rust | Orange pustules on leaves | Remove infected foliage and improve air circulation |
| Generally disease-free | No serious disease problems reported | Provide full sun and good air movement |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaf surfaces | Apply sulfur-based fungicide and ensure proper spacing |
Making more Andropogon
Division
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall
- Replant divisions immediately
- Water thoroughly after planting
Seed
- Tuck seeds into prepared soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until germination, about 2 weeks.
- Thin seedlings for optimal growth.
Andropogon questions
How many types of Andropogon are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 8 distinct Andropogon varieties. The most popular — ranked by 336 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Andropogon grow in?
Across its varieties, Andropogon covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Andropogon bloom?
Most Andropogon varieties bloom in late summer, mid-summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Andropogon should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.