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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
'Shenandoah' is truly a plant for all seasons. In early summer, its leaf blades are tipped in red, and by autumn, the entire leaf is a rich burgundy color, topped by pink plumes. In winter, the leaf color fades to beige; the blades persist and offer cover to birds. 'Shenandoah' is a compact selection of an American native prairie grass.
 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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