Big Bluestem Holy Smoke
Andropogon gerardii 'Holy Smoke'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
60 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Andropogon gerardii, commonly known as Big Bluestem, is a tall, perennial grass with upright, clumping growth, bluish-green foliage, and distinctive reddish-brown seed heads that develop in late summer. The 'Holy Smoke' cultivar features striking, variegated foliage with reddish hues that intensify in the fall, adding ornamental value and visual interest throughout the growing season.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
- Provide full sun for optimal growth
- Space plants 24 inches apart to prevent overcrowding
- Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer
- Allow plants to grow undisturbed for best results
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead stems in late winter
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization which can weaken stems
- Do not disturb roots during peak growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Big Bluestem Holy Smoke questions
What zones can Big Bluestem Holy Smoke grow in?
Big Bluestem Holy Smoke is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Big Bluestem Holy Smoke deer resistant?
Yes — Big Bluestem Holy Smoke is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Big Bluestem Holy Smoke bloom?
Big Bluestem Holy Smoke typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Big Bluestem Holy Smoke need full sun?
Big Bluestem Holy Smoke does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Big Bluestem Holy Smoke drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Big Bluestem Holy Smoke handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Andropogon to compare
Big Bluestem
Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks'
Red October Big Bluestem
Andropogon gerardi 'Red October'
'Rain Dance' Big Bluestem
Andropogon gerardii 'Rain Dance'
Splitbeard Bluestem
Andropogon ternarius
Broomsedge Bluestem
Andropogon virginicus
Bushy Bluestem
Andropogon glomeratus
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Big Bluestem Holy Smoke with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
