Species switch grass
pink-green foliage

switch grass

Panicum virgatum

Switch Grass (Panicum Virgatum) is a native ornamental grass which is highly adaptable and ideal for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance option. It grows tall and thick, up to 5-7' in height, with wide growing clumps and fine, green foliage. The vertical stems of the grasses are topped with colorful panicles of purple and red flowers, transforming to a golden color in the fall. This clumping grass is well suited for wet soils, does not require fertilizing, and provides beautiful 4-season interest. Switch Grass is drought tolerant and has low maintenance requirements to keep it looking its best.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Pink-tinged Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Humus rich, Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Switch grass should be watered regularly, as it prefers moist soil. During the active growing season, water switch grass once or twice a week, making sure the soil remains evenly moist. This can be difficult to monitor in the hot summer months when water evaporates quickly - if necessary, water more often. In the winter months, water less often, about once every 2 or 3 weeks. Soil should be checked for moisture before watering again. As a bunch grass, switch grass produces an extensive root system and should be able to tolerate dry spells once established.

sunlight

Switch grass (Panicum virgatum) should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It thrives best in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. In most cases, switch grass plants will produce the most growth and have the fullest leaves when grown in full sun. During the hottest periods of summer and when grown in containers, partial shade can be beneficial to protect the plant from too much intense, direct sunlight. It also helps moderate soil temperatures and prevent root burn.

pruning

Switch grass (Panicum virgatum) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. To encourage productivity and vigor, the plant should be cut back to 4 to 8 inches tall. Removing the dead foliage and damaged stems will also remove any potential disease and pest infestations that might be present. After pruning, the remaining foliage should be fertilized lightly with a balanced fertilizer to ensure proper growth and prevent disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Switch grass typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

Switch grass is typically harvested in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Switch grass typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

Switch grass is typically harvested in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map