Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'
Shenandoah Switchgrass

- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 36–48 inches
- Width
- 18–24 inches
- Flower color
- Pinkish flower panicles
- Foliage color
- Deep green leaves with red tips in mid-summer, transitioning darker red in the fall
- Bloom time
- Late summer to early fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Dry to average moisture; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back in early spring
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds and butterflies; deer-resistant
About this plant
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' is an ornamental grass with reddish-bronze foliage. The narrow, green leaves gradually develop rich red tones throughout the growing season, with the color intensifying in late summer and fall. The plant also produces feathery, airy flower panicles in late summer to early fall that darken with age, adding texture and movement to the landscape.
This switchgrass variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It forms an open, airy mound with a slightly arching habit, creating a graceful, naturalistic appearance. 'Shenandoah' is ideal for borders, meadows, and mixed plantings where it can be appreciated for its relaxed form and vibrant color. Once established, it is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering during dry spells.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Bird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Yarrow · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis
Design tip
Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
