Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass 'Shenandoah')
Switchgrass is one of the dominant species of the tallgrass prairie. It is a perennial, clump-forming, warm-season grass with open, airy rose-colored seedheads. Grows in large clumps with many persistent, curly leaves. It slowly spreads by rhizomes. Fall color is pale yellow.
Switchgrass is best for pocket prairies, deep soils on slopes, winter structure and color. It is adaptable for both dry and wet areas. Prefers full sun. It attracts songbirds which are drawn to its seeds.
'Shenandoah' features some of the best burgundy-red foliage of the many panicum cultivars. Foliage emerges bluish-green but rapidly turns burgundy-red. It forms a compact, erect clump. The flower panicles are finely textured and rose colored.
AT A GLANCE
| Texas native |
Nativar |
| Water use | Medium |
| Sun exposure | Full sun, part sun |
| Bloom time | Summer, fall |
| Mature height | 3-4 ft |
| Mature spread | 2-3 ft |
| Attracts | Birds, butterflies |
| Host plant | Arogos Skipper, Delaware Skipper & Dotted Skipper butterflies. |
| Deer resistant | Yes |
| Notes | Provides nesting material for birds. |
DISTRIBUTION MAPS
 Present in state |
 Present in county and native |
 Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state |
 Not present in state |
 Present and rare, native in county |
 Previously present, now extinct |
 Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color) |
