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Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' ('Shenandoah' red switchgrass)

Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' Photo/Illustration: Bill Johnson



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' PAN-ih-kum ver-GAY-tum Common Name: 'Shenandoah' red switchgrass Genus: Panicum
This compact selection of an American native prairie grass turns heads in early summer, with its leaf blades tipped in rich red. The color builds into autumn, when the entire leaf blade is drenched in burgundy and gossamer clouds of misty pink plumes hover overhead, providing irresistible texture. Winter brings papery beige leaf blades that rustle in the wind and provide cover for birds.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Colorful foliage and frothy flowers on a cultivar of a U.S. native warm-season grass.
 Care: Grow in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring.
 Propagation: Divide plants in spring or early summer, or start seeds at 55-64°F in spring.
 Problems: Nothing serious.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Low
Characteristics Attracts Birds; Native; Showy Fall Foliage; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Early Fall; Fall
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Flower Color Pink Flower
Uses Beds and Borders
Style Meadow Garden
Seasonal Interest Winter Interest, Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Grasses

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