Our second vegetative form of big bluestem is hard to beat for its fall color. Initially selected for its finer foliage, it has a nice upright habit to six feet. Leaves emerge deep green and typically have some red tips starting in spring. In August the red highlights increase and deepen to a rich burgundy red. After the first frost, usually in October, the foliage turns a more scarlet red, taking on a striking appearance. Red flowers begin in August. Full sun is best for the red foliage color. Well-drained soil. John Greenlee called this “the New Rubrum.”