Andropogon 'Blackhawks'
"Big bluestem"
Orders placed before 1 March 2025
You can expect your order in February/March 2025
Orders placed 1 March - 15 April 2025
You can expect your order in March/April 2025
Orders placed 16 April - 15 May 2025
You can expect your order within 10 business days
UK orders over £50
Free shipping
UK orders under £50
£4.99
Northern Ireland orders under £50
£5.99
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Description
Andropogon 'Blackhawks', also known as big bluestem or shepherd’s beard, is the garden’s answer to a style icon. Its tall, elegant blades emerge in deep green hues that slowly darken to shades of burgundy and almost black as the season progresses. This ornamental grass doesn’t just stand around looking good—it sways with the breeze, adding movement and texture to any planting scheme. Whether you’re designing a prairie-inspired garden or adding a touch of contrast to traditional borders, Andropogon 'Blackhawks' is a versatile choice with a touch of theatrical flair.
Come autumn, Andropogon 'Blackhawks' reaches its peak, with its dramatic colours stealing the show. It pairs beautifully with warm-toned late bloomers or silvery foliage, creating a striking seasonal display. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a favourite for gardeners seeking beauty without the hard labour, while its wildlife-friendly credentials attract bees and butterflies. This grass is perfect for those who appreciate understated sophistication with a moody edge. Officially known as Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks'®, this is one grass that proves ornamental plants can be as bold and stylish as the most dazzling flowers.
Key features
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Comes back every year
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Thrives well in full sun
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In peat-free compost
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Low maintenance
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Drought tolerant
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Fully hardy
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Rodent resistant
Specs & details
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Botanical name
Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks'®
syn. Andropogon furcatus -
Flower colour
Purple
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Plant size
1
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Established height
1-1.5m
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Established spread
50-70cm
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Plant spacing
5 plants per m2
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Leaf colour
Green, purple, blue, near-black
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Habit
Upright
Clump-forming -
Life cycle
Perennial
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Hardiness
Fully hardy
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Years to establish
2-3 years
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Sunlight
Full sun
Dappled shade -
Position
Sheltered
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Suitable for
Borders
Coastal gardens
Cottage gardens
Gravel gardens
Large containers
Low maintenance gardens
Wildlife gardens -
Soil acidity
Any
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Soil moisture
Free draining
Dry -
Soil type
Loam
Sandy
Loam-based compost -
Growing skill
Easy to grow
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Scented
No
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Pollinator-friendly
No
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Mouse resistant
Yes
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Rabbit resistant
Yes
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Deer resistant
Yes
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Toxicity
No report
Plant calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
- Planting
- Flowering
Useful information
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Soak your Andropogon 'Blackhawks' roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting.
Plant your "Big bluestem" bare roots into temporary pots with a multipurpose compost in spring and grow-on in a sheltered spot outdoors.
Choose a pot which comfortably fits the bare roots. Some have a noticeable crown which should be just below the soil surface with any top growth exposed.
Plant out into borders or permanent containers in late spring or early summer once in full growth. Choose a position in sun or shade depending on the variety.
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Orders placed before 1 March 2025
You can expect your order in Feb/March 2025Orders placed 1 March - 15 April 2025
You can expect your order in April 2025Orders placed 16 April - 15 May 2025
You can expect your order within 10 business days
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