Add year-round interest to your garden with Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’, commonly known as Shenandoah Switchgrass. This stunning native ornamental grass is prized for its upright, clumping habit and vibrant foliage that transitions from green to deep red in late summer. Its airy, reddish flower panicles add a delicate texture and movement, while its adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for a variety of landscapes, from borders to naturalized areas.

Why Choose Shenandoah Switchgrass?

• Vibrant Foliage: Begins the season with green leaves that develop striking red hues as summer progresses, intensifying into a rich burgundy in fall.
• Ornamental Flowers: Delicate, airy panicles of reddish-pink flowers appear in late summer, adding texture and visual appeal.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives in a variety of soils and conditions, including drought, making it ideal for eco-friendly gardens.
• Wildlife Benefits: Provides habitat and seeds for birds and small mammals, while its flowers attract pollinators.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight Needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade, with the best color and growth in sunnier locations.
• Soil Preferences: Adaptable to a range of soils, from sandy to clay, but thrives in well-drained, moist soils.
• Watering Requirements: Drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent moisture during the first growing season.
• Spacing: Plant 18-24 inches apart to allow for its mature size and upright growth habit.

Design Ideas for Your Garden

Shenandoah Switchgrass is perfect for adding texture and movement to borders, mass plantings, or meadow gardens. Use it to create a striking backdrop for flowering perennials, or combine it with other native grasses like Little Bluestem or Prairie Dropseed for a naturalistic design. Its burgundy foliage makes it a standout in fall landscapes.

Ecological Benefits

Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’ supports pollinators and provides seeds for birds, making it an essential addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Its dense root system helps prevent soil erosion and improves soil health, contributing to sustainable landscapes.

Elevate your garden with the bold color and ecological value of Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’ – Shenandoah Switchgrass. This versatile native grass adds beauty and functionality to any outdoor space.