switchgrass Interesting Notes

Panicum virgatum is an upright landscape grass with lovely blue-green foliage that turns yellow in fall. In late summer, airy wheat-colored flowers appear and the seedheads remain attractive well into winter. It is an undemanding native grass suitable to any soil type. Tough and easy to grow, P. virgatum grows 3-6’ tall and up to 3’ wide. If placed in a happy location (and the competition by birds isn’t too high), the plant will happily self-sow. We love using it as a native replacement to Miscanthus.

Panicum virgatum is one of the most common plants found in the central plains of North America. Growing from Quebec to Montana to Florida through to much of Central America in dry or moist prairies, bluffs, stream banks, and open woods. Switchgrass is native to North American tall-grass prairies and was one of the most prominent prairie species. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate part shade, especially with site-associated mycorrhizal fungi. The plant needs little maintenance after planting – it can be cut to 8” tall in late winter or early spring to tidy up appearance before next season’s display. Panicum virgatum rejuvenates with fire - as a prairie species, fire helps clear old growth and the plant’s deep root system protects it. For most upright growth, plant grass in lean soil; too rich of soil causes the plant to flop. It is mostly trouble-free but occasionally, has issues with rust in hot and humid summers. Crown rot or root rot may occur if the site is too moist and there is poor air exchange.

Switchgrass provides habitat and nesting material for many small vertebrates, is an essential host to the Delaware Skipper and for most banded skippers and satyrs, and also provides seed for birds. This plant thrives in tough locations while also maintaining high-ornamental value. The deep root systems are excellent for erosion control and its tolerance for moist sites allows the plant to be used along stream banks and pond edges to keep soil in place. We enjoy the ease of use, disease resistance, deer-resistance, and how it provides a perfect, lush backdrop to pocket prairies, herbaceous borders, seasonal privacy screens, and gravel gardens. 

Panicum virgatum Growing and Maintenance Tips

Tolerates drought or standing water. Grow in full sun average to moist soil with good drainage. Water well on planting and regularly until established. 

Good Substitutions

Eupatorium fistulosum 'JoJo'

Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'

Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'

Panicum 'Cape Breeze'