Northwind Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum

PAN-ih-kum ver-GAY-tum

Perennials: Ornamental grass

Switch Grass

Zone
4: -30° to -20°
Min. Temp
Frost Tolerant: 24°

A tall ornamental grass which features one of the best vertical forms of any Panicum. The leaves are olive-green to bluish-green. The plant forms a compact, narrow, thick leafed, erect clump. Topped in late summer by finely textured yellow plumes. Foliage turn yellow-beige in fall. Tolerates dry and wet soil, drought and air pollution.

Appearance

Summer Foliage
Blue-Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Blooming Time
Late Summer - Fall
Habit
Upright
Height
2–3 ft
Spread
2–3 ft
Form
Panicle

Characteristics

Type
Cultivar
Safety
Non-toxic
Growth Rate
Moderate
Tolerance/Resistance
Cold Hardy
Attracts
Doesn't Attract Beneficials
Uses/Placement
Screen

Optimal Growing Conditions

Sun Exposure
Full Sun - Part Sun
Soil Texture
Adaptable
Soil Drainage
Adaptable
Soil Moisture
Dry to Average
Soil PH
Neutral: 6.5-7.0
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Minimal Fertilizer Needed
Fertilizer Formula
Balanced Fertilizer
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Bloom
Micronutrients
Trace Minerals Beneficial

Care

Care Level
Very Low

Behavior and Propagation

Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Wind Pollinated
Propagation Licensing
Plant Patent (PP)
Division Timing
Spring Division