Panicum virgatum

Switchgrass

Switchgrass or Panicum virgatum is a lovely native ornamental grass. Because there is a lot of variation in seedling populations, a number of wonderful variants have been selected and named (‘Shenandoah’, ‘Heavy Metal’, ‘Northwind’, ‘Purple Tears’ to name a few). Panicum virgatum handles a very wide range of soil and site conditions, and keeps its attractive habit well into the winter. Switchgrass is a very important food source for wildlife in fall and winter.  A popular winter forage for birds and bees that overwinter in the base and the dried foliage creates excellent nesting supplies for native birds.  It is also a food source for skipper caterpillars.

  • Category: Grasses
  • Hardiness Zone: 4
  • Height: 40 Inches
  • Spread: 30 Inches
  • Bloom Color: Ivory/Buff

j

Qty Description Comments Future Crop Future Crop Ready Date
Substitutions are Available
Exposure
Sun
Soil Conditions
Dry
Average
Moist
Sandy
Bloom Time
Summer
Fall
Attracts Wildlife
Food Source for Wildlife
Foliage Color
Blue/Blue-Gray/Blue-Green
Green
Winter Interest
Seedheads
Grass Season
Warm Season