Species switch grass
Upright, narrow, shiny, burgundy-green, feathery blades

switch grass

Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch'

Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch') is a an ornamental grass that is native to North America. It grows in clumps up to 6 feet or more in height and has long, narrow leaves, which turn a rose-hued bronzy-red in colour during the autumn months. The foliage of Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch' is sometimes referred to as a fountain of fire, thanks to its bright red colour. This grass is a great addition to any garden, providing a colourful and hardy ornamental display. Its dense habit also makes it great for use as a screening or shelter planting. Switch grass is also extremely low-maintenance and is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions.

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:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Switch Grass should be watered deeply, approximately 1 to 2 inches per week. During the summer, water more often to keep the soil lightly moist. During periods of drought, water more frequently to prevent the plant from becoming too dry. In order to ensure that the plant receives enough water, water it slowly and deeply. If watered properly, it will tolerate and benefit from the occasional deep watering session. Additionally, switch grass needs to be watered thoroughly during the growing season to promote vigorous growth.

sunlight

Switch grass typically thrives with full sun for 6-8 hours a day. The plant can tolerate some shade, but ideally should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day for optimal growth. Placement in a sunny location within the garden and away from tall trees will help maximize total sunlight hours each day. When growing in containers, this grass should be placed closer to a light source, such as a south facing window, to ensure it gets enough sunlight.

pruning

Switch grass (Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch') should be pruned during the early spring after the last expected frost. This is the best time to prune Switch grass to promote a healthy and full growth for the season. While pruning, remove about 1-third of the oldest stalks just above ground level, cutting them as close to the soil as possible. This is an important step in keeping the plant healthy, as restricting the number of stalks will force the plant to focus energy on the stronger, healthier leaves and shoots. Removing some of the shoots will also help to promote a more attractive appearance to the plant.

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, so the months to start harvesting the fruits from Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch' would be August, September, October, and November.

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, so the months to start harvesting the fruits from Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch' would be August, September, October, and November.

Hardiness Map