Switch Grass (Panicum 'Shenandoah')


Switch Grass Plant Features

Switch grass is a remarkably versatile perennial grass that tolerates wet or dry soil, black walnut trees, and even deer and rabbits. The plants develop upright clumps of bright green foliage that's often tipped with red when it first appears in the spring. In the summer, switch grass develops airy, reddish-pink flower plumes that will remain on the plant through the winter. And, when fall rolls around switch grass foliage turns into glowing shades of red and purple. A North American native, switch grass grows about 4 feet tall and requires almost no care once it's established. Hardy from zones 4-9.

Switch Grass Questions
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Switch Grass Growing Instructions

Switch grass grows best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter It can grow in some partial shade, but the plants are more likely to flop over and less likely to develop rich fall color. Switch grass can tolerate both dry and wet situations. 
Image courtesy Ball Horticultural

Switch grass is not intended for human or animal consumption.
  • Water

    Low water needs

  • Light

    Outside: Part sun

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Green

    Red

  • Special Features

    Colorful foliage

    Deer/rabbit resistant

    Groundcover


Complement your Switch Grass

Black-Eyed Susan
The beautiful daisy-like flowers of Black-Eyed Susan and Switch Grass are an awesome combination.

Sunflower, Perennial
Perennial Sunflower is a good partner for Switch Grass.

Coneflower
Coneflower makes a colorful companion for Switch Grass.


Our favorite varieties

Frosted Explosion Switch Grass

Frosted Explosion Switch Grass

Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion'

This annual grass shows off elegant plumes that look like fireworks. Because the plumes are long lasting, they're good choices for cut-flower arrangements and dried-flower crafts. It grows 36 inches tall and wide.