Overview
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' is a clump-forming perennial grass in the genus Panicum, part of the Poaceae family, with narrow, lanceolate leaves foliage. It typically grows around 1.8 m tall. Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, border filler and wildlife garden. It is native to North America.
About
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' is a named cultivar of Panicum in the grass family Poaceae. It is traded under the common name Switchgrass and is one selection within that species. Plants produce flowers from July to September. Consider cultivar labels and supplier notes to confirm the traits you need.
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 'Squaw' is a named cultivar of Panicum and belongs to the grass family Poaceae. As a cultivar, it should be considered alongside other Panicum selections when planning a planting scheme; labels and supplier information will indicate the particular form and behaviour offered by 'Squaw'. When choosing any named Panicum, check nursery descriptions for growth habit, flowering period and winter persistence so you can match the plant to your position and neighbours. Retail notes and trial reports are the most reliable sources for details such as ultimate height, leaf texture and whether the cultivar suits a mixed border, a meadow area or a specimen position. Propagation and establishment guidance vary between named selections, so follow the supplier's recommended methods for best results. Panicum cultivars are used in a range of schemes, from informal meadow-style areas to structural drifts in larger borders; select 'Squaw' where the particular combination of form and flowering time complements other plants. Its season of interest extends into late summer and early autumn when it flowers from July to September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Panicum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moderate
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial grass
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Narrow, lanceolate leaves
- Height
- 1.8 m
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental grass, border filler, wildlife garden
- Native to
- North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Panicum virgatum 'Squaw'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; tolerates drought once established; minimal fertilizer needed; division in spring is effective for propagation.
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Panicum virgatum 'Squaw'?
Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; tolerates drought once established; minimal fertilizer needed; division in spring is effective for propagation.
Where is the best place to plant Panicum virgatum 'Squaw'?
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' need?
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Panicum virgatum 'Squaw'?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.
How big does Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' grow?
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' reaches a height of 1.8 m.
Is Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' hardy in the UK?
Panicum virgatum 'Squaw' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Panicum virgatum 'Squaw'?
Division, seed.
More in the Panicum genus
- Panicum 'Cloud Nine'Panicgrass
- Panicum Virgatum 'Blue Giants'Panicgrass
- Panicum 'Cape Breeze'Panicgrass