Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'

Upright Switchgrass

Upright switchgrass with a blue-green foliage that looks great in the summer. Foliage turns yellow in fall then fades to a pleasant shade of beige during the winter. Airy, wheat-colored flowers open in late summer and remain nice through fall. This is a great native replacement for Miscanthus. This warm season clumping grass is excellent in masses.

Switchgrass provides habitat and nesting sites for many small vertebrates, is an essential host for several butterflies, and provides seed for birds. The deep root systems are excellent for erosion control. It is also useful for moist sites along stream banks and pond edges to keep soil in place. 

  • Native, ornamental grass
  • Blue-green foliage
  • Drought tolerant with upright habit

  • Category: Grass, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 3-9
  • Height: 3-5 ft
  • Spread: 2-3 ft
  • Foliage Color: Blue, Green
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Landscape Characteristics
Flowers
Foliage Color
Classification by Use
Color Impact
Drought Tolerant
Hedge/Screen
Mass Planting
Native
Specialty Use
Butterfly Garden
Wildlife Garden
Animal Resistance
Deer Resistant
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Songbirds
Habit
Clumping
Upright
Light Requirement
Full Sun
Foliage
Deciduous
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Fall
Summer
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Summer
Winter
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Moisture
Dry Soil
Average Water
Well-Drained
Foliage Color
Blue
Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'

Plant in full sun in soil that is not too rich or too fertile. Extremely drought tolerant but also grows well in moist soil with good drainage. Will tolerate periodic standing water. Fertilizer can cause the grass to flop over. Cut back in the spring just as new growth is emerging.