Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'

Red Switchgrass

Upright switchgrass with red-tinted foliage during the growing season changing to red-purple in the 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 aprovides 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
  • Upright, narrow habit
  • Green foliage with red highlights and showy red flowers

  • Category: Grass, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 4-9
  • Height: 3-4 ft
  • Spread: 2-3 ft
  • Bloom Color: Red
  • Foliage Color: Green, Red
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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
Fall Color
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Fall
Summer
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Well-Drained
Wet Soil/Wetlands
Foliage Color
Green
Red
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'

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.