Perennial
4-8 feet tall
Full Sun to Part Shade
Blooms August-October
Dry to Moist Site
Zones 3-9
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is one of the dominant species of the tallgrass prairie, but also grows along roadsides where moisture is present. The rich, yellow-colored clumps last throughout the winter.
Switchgrass is a clump-forming, warm-season grass with open, lacy sprays with small seeds. This species is a host plant for the Delaware Skipper and the Dotted Skipper.
For larger stands of Switchgrass, sow at a density of 2-3 KG/acre.
Growing Instructions
Cold stratification is required. Mix seeds with moist substrate (vermiculite, perlite or moss) and place in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 6-8 weeks. Sow seed at 1/4 inch depth. Do not let seedling dry out while it is establishing.
OR
Sow directly outdoors in late fall to overwinter.