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. 'Shenandoah' is prized in the US and abroad for its strongly red-tinged leaf tips, which take on this hue in July or August. Among many North American grasses to be researched for ornamental value in Europe, Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' was derived from a seedling of P. virgatum 'Hänse Herms' by Hans Simon in Germany before being introduced back to the United States. This more broadly spreading P. virgatum cultivar is useful in masses, borders, meadow gardens, and along shorelines, tolerating drought once established. Cut back in early spring to promote healthy new growth.

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