Red Switch Grass ‘Shenandoah’ (Panicum virgatum)

USDA Zone: 4-9

Switch Grass was an important component of the Tall-grass Prairie that once covered much of the Great Plains. This selection forms an upright clump of green leaves with distinctive red tips appearing by midsummer. Airy heads of tiny reddish flowers appear in August, followed by amazing deep purple-red fall colour. Usually attractive in the garden all winter long. Flowers are good for cutting, fresh or dried. Trim back to the ground in early spring. Clumps are easily divided in spring. Drought tolerant once established.

Sun Exposure 
  Full Sun

Soil Type 
  Normal or
  Sandy or
  Clay

Soil pH 
  Neutral or
  Alkaline or
  Acid

Soil Moisture 
  Average or
  Dry or
  Moist

Care Level 
  Easy 

Flower Colour 
  Red 

Blooming Time 
  Late Summer  
  Early Fall  
  Mid Fall 

Foliage Color 
  Deep Green  
  Purple Black 

Plant Uses & Characteristics 
  Accent: Good Texture/Form  
  Border  
  Containers  
  Cut Flower  
  Deer Resistant  
  Dried Flower  
  Drought Tolerant  
  Massed  
  Specimen  
  Waterside  
  Wild Flower 

Flower Head Size 
  Large 

Height 
   80-90 cm  
   31-35 inches

Spread 
   75-90 cm  
   29-35 inches

Foot Traffic 
   None 
Growth Rate 
   Medium