Native Plant Trust

Panicum virgatum

switchgrass

Possibly the most widely planted native grass in America, Panicum virgatum is a reliable and attractive rhizomatous plant, supplying dense vertical structure that blows attractively in the breeze and bears delicate red seed heads above the stem starting in late summer. This species is extremely versatile, and will grow in any soil, from fast-draining sand to heavy clay. Locate in full sun anwhere that an upright, sod-forming ornamental grass is needed, including containers!

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Height: 3-6 ft
Spread: 2-3 ft
Hardiness Zone: 3-9


Bloom Color: Non-Flowering

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
Species
Exposure
Sun
Soil Moisture
Dry
Average
Ecoregion
(84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
(82) Acadian Plains and Hills
(58) Northeastern Highlands
(83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
(59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
Ornamental Interest
Fall Foliage
Attracts Wildlife
Host Plant
Pollinator Powerhouse Plant
Attracts Songbirds
Tolerance
Drought Tolerant
Urban Environment
Salt Tolerant
Additional Attributes
Low Maintenance
Erosion Control/Soil Stabilization
Landscape Use
Meadow garden
Naturalize
Rain Garden
Massing
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
Orange to Brown Fall Foliage


North American Distribution


switchgrass - Panicum virgatum from Native Plant Trust
switchgrass - Panicum virgatum from Native Plant Trust
switchgrass - Panicum virgatum from Native Plant Trust