PANICUM

Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) is native to Martha's Vineyard and the New England region. It is a quintessential North American warm-season grass that thrives locally in coastal plain environments, fields, and woodland edges.

Switchgrass serves many purposes in the landscape, adding height and texture, as well as giving a natural feel in ecological restoration projects. Easily grown in average to wet soils in full sun to part shade, this clump-forming grass typically stands 3 to 6 feet tall and spreads through rhizomes. Once established, it is remarkably low-maintenance, thriving in hot sun and tolerating drought without requiring rich soil.

Seasonal Interest & Wildlife Value

Summer & Fall: Bright green leaves line the stems throughout the growing season before turning a brilliant yellow in the fall. In mid-to-late summer, it features finely-textured, pink-tinged, panicles that mature into delicate red seed heads.
Winter: The seed plumes stay through winter and are a good food source for birds. The dense habit provides crucial winter cover for small mammals.
Ecological Role: Switchgrass acts as an important native host plant for butterflies such as the tawny edge skipper and Delaware skipper.

Popular Panicum Cultivars

Panicum virgatum 'Cloud Nine' (Switchgrass): One of the tallest varieties available, featuring upright bluish foliage with rose-colored seed panicles that transition to rich golden shades in autumn. It provides ideal wildlife habitat and food for songbirds.
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Red Switchgrass): A stunning red switchgrass with upright foliage that becomes red-tinted during the growing season culminating in a dazzling red-leaved show in fall. It is exceptionally drought-tolerant and easy to maintain.
Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' (Blue Switchgrass): Features a strictly upright habit with metallic-blue foliage. Airy, pink-tinted blooms appear in July, highlighting the steely blue leaves, and beautiful when planted in masses.