Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' | Shenandoah Switchgrass
DESCRIPTION
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' is an ornamental grass with reddish-bronze foliage. The narrow, green leaves gradually develop rich red tones throughout the growing season, with the color intensifying in late summer and fall. The plant also produces feathery, airy flower panicles in late summer to early fall that darken with age, adding texture and movement to the landscape.
This switchgrass variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It forms an open, airy mound with a slightly arching habit, creating a graceful, naturalistic appearance. 'Shenandoah' is ideal for borders, meadows, and mixed plantings where it can be appreciated for its relaxed form and vibrant color. Once established, it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering during dry spells.
DESCRIPTION
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' is an ornamental grass with reddish-bronze foliage. The narrow, green leaves gradually develop rich red tones throughout the growing season, with the color intensifying in late summer and fall. The plant also produces feathery, airy flower panicles in late summer to early fall that darken with age, adding texture and movement to the landscape.
This switchgrass variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It forms an open, airy mound with a slightly arching habit, creating a graceful, naturalistic appearance. 'Shenandoah' is ideal for borders, meadows, and mixed plantings where it can be appreciated for its relaxed form and vibrant color. Once established, it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering during dry spells.
DESCRIPTION
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' is an ornamental grass with reddish-bronze foliage. The narrow, green leaves gradually develop rich red tones throughout the growing season, with the color intensifying in late summer and fall. The plant also produces feathery, airy flower panicles in late summer to early fall that darken with age, adding texture and movement to the landscape.
This switchgrass variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It forms an open, airy mound with a slightly arching habit, creating a graceful, naturalistic appearance. 'Shenandoah' is ideal for borders, meadows, and mixed plantings where it can be appreciated for its relaxed form and vibrant color. Once established, it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering during dry spells.
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Family: Poaceae
Height: 36–48 inches
Width: 18–24 inches
Flower color: Pinkish flower panicles
Foliage color: Deep green leaves with red tips in mid-summer, transitioning darker red in the fall
Bloom time: Late summer to early fall
Light requirements: Full sun
Water requirements: Dry to average moisture; drought-tolerant once established
Maintenance: Low; cut back in early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 4–9
Wildlife attractors: Attracts birds and butterflies; deer-resistantThis plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
