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‘Shenandoah’ red switchgrass

Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’

PAN-ih-kum ver-GAY-tum

‘Shenandoah’ is truly a plant for all seasons. In early summer, its leaf blades are tipped in red, and by autumn the entire leaf is a rich burgundy color and is topped by pink plumes. In winter, the leaf color fades to beige; the blades persist and offer cover to birds. ‘Shenandoah’ is a compact selection of an American native prairie grass. —Chris Kelley, Fine Gardening #120

Noteworthy CharacteristicsColorful foliage and frothy flowers on a cultivar of a U.S. native warm-season grass

CareGrow in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring.

PropagationDivide plants in spring or early summer, or start seeds at 55° to 64°F in spring.

ProblemsNothing serious

  • Genus : Panicum
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Plant Type : Grasses
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Flower Color : Pink
  • Foliage Color : Purple/Burgundy
  • Characteristics : Showy Fall Foliage, Showy Foliage
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest

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