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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'

Shenandoah Switchgrass

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.

Light

Full sun

Water

Dry to average moisture; drought-tolerant once established

Bloom time

Late summer to early fall

Find this plant

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.