Panicum amarum, commonly known as Bitter Panic Grass, is a robust, warm-season native grass well-adapted to sandy, coastal environments. It grows 3 to 6 feet tall with narrow blue-green foliage and airy, upright flowering spikes that appear in late summer. Its deep root system makes it exceptionally valuable for erosion control, dune stabilization, and habitat restoration along shorelines and sandy soils. Bitter Panic Grass is also salt-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it a resilient, low-maintenance choice for naturalistic landscapes, coastal gardens, and conservation plantings.

Why choose Bitter Panic Grass:

• Coastal native: Thrives in sandy soils and salt spray conditions

• Erosion control: Deep roots help stabilize dunes, slopes, and loose soils

• Seasonal interest: Upright foliage and airy seed heads add movement and texture

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Requires full sun

• Soil needs: Prefers sandy, well-drained soils; highly tolerant of poor fertility

• Maintenance: Very low-maintenance; cut back in late winter to encourage fresh growth

Designs for your garden:

• Coastal landscapes: Ideal for beachfront plantings and dune stabilization

• Native meadows: Provides texture, height, and habitat in restoration projects

• Wildlife gardens: Seeds attract birds; dense clumps offer cover for small animals

Ecological benefits:

• Native species: Supports native pollinators and coastal biodiversity

• Wildlife habitat: Provides food and shelter for birds and insects

• Sustainable landscape solution: Thrives in harsh conditions with minimal input