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