SWITCH GRASS (Panicum virgatum)
It may seem strange to describe a grass as “stately”, but that’s the impression switch grass leaves on me. Its stiff, erect stature and beautiful, pyramid-shaped panicles give it an air of confidence and endurance, yet it doesn’t demand attention. From a distance, it’s easy to overlook, despite its average four foot height. Switch grass does well in a wide range of growing conditions, from sand to clay and wet to dry.
Grows with wild strawberry, tufted hairgrass, big bluestem, sorghastrum, cord grass, northern reed grass, and shrubby cinquefoil.
Life Cycle: perennial, warm season
Sun Exposure: full sun
Bloom Period: August
Height: 4 – 12”
Soil: dry to moist