Garden Goods Direct | Shenandoah Switch Grass

Shenandoah Switch Grass grows in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including dry ones, but prefers moist, sandy, or clay soils. Will grow in part shade but begins to lose its columnar form in too much shade, growing more openly and possibly falling over. Cut back clumps to the ground in late winter to early spring. Shenandoah Switch Grass features some of the best burgundy-red foliage of the many panicum cultivars available in commerce. Foliage emerges bluish-green but rapidly turns burgundy-red (by late June) to form a compact, narrow, erect, 3′ tall clump of foliage topped in summer by finely-textured, reddish-pink flower panicles which hover over the foliage like an airy cloud. Panicles turn beige as the seeds mature in fall, with the seed plumes persisting well into winter. Foliage also turns beige in fall and provides good winter interest. Shenandoah Switch Grass is best massed or in groups, Perennial borders, meadows, wild gardens, or naturalized areas. Native to North America, this grass is perfect for any garden. Ideal for use in rain gardens and provides winter interest in any situation. Tolerates all types of soil. It prefers full sun to bring out the best red color.