Panicum virgatum (switch grass) — Perennial grass

Overview

Panicum virgatum is a perennial grass in the genus Panicum, part of the Q43238 family. It typically grows around 1.8 m tall. Panicum virgatum grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, erosion control and wildlife habitat. It is native to North America.

About

Panicum virgatum is a perennial grass that typically reaches about 1.8 m and is used for erosion control and wildlife habitat. It prefers full sun on sandy or loamy soils that are moist but well-drained. In the UK it carries an H2 rating, meaning it is half-hardy and best sited where winter exposure is limited. Flowering occurs from July to September.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Panicum virgatum

About the genus

Panicum, commonly called panicgrass, is a large genus of about 250 species of grasses mostly native to tropical regions.

Wikipedia contributors, "Panicum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Panicum

In the garden

Panicum virgatum is a perennial grass native to North America, grown here for its height and structural presence. Plants commonly reach about 1.8 m and are valued as an ornamental grass as well as for erosion control and providing habitat for wildlife. Expect flowering from July to September. Give Panicum virgatum a sunny position and a free-draining sandy or loamy soil; it tolerates moisture but does not suit waterlogged ground. Its UK hardiness is H2, which translates as half-hardy — choose a sheltered spot away from exposed, frosty corners if you are in a colder or coastal garden. Avoid densely shaded sites to prevent flopping and poor flowering. Use this grass as a tall backdrop to herbaceous borders, on banks where its root mass helps control erosion, or in expanses for wildlife cover. Plants establish best in open, sunny planting schemes where they can form upright stems to their full height. Plants typically reach about 1.8 m and flower from July to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Panicum

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H2

Plant details

Panicum virgatum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial grass
Height: 1.8 m
Suggested uses: Ornamental grass, Erosion control, Wildlife habitat
Native to: North America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Panicum virgatum

Cultivation: Prefers full sun and well-drained soils; tolerates drought once established
Pruning: Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins
Propagation: Seed, Division