Shenandoah Switch Grass (Cultivar)
Warm-season perennial bunchgrass cultivar growing 90-120 cm tall. Selected for burgundy-red foliage that develops through summer and provides outstanding fall color. Forms neat, upright clumps through limited rhizomatous spread. Produces airy pink-red flower panicles in late summer. Extremely drought tolerant with deep root system. Excellent for ornamental use where colorful foliage is desired. Maintains structure through winter. Cultivar of native North American species.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pinkish-Red
Bloom Time: Late Summer to Fall
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist
Phenology: New growth emerges with red tints in April-May. Red coloration in foliage develops through summer, intensifying in heat and drought. Flowering begins in August with airy pink-red panicles. Seeds may be sterile or limited. Outstanding burgundy fall color develops September-October, persisting through winter.
Wildlife Value: Moderate wildlife value; limited seed production but provides nesting cover and winter structure; less wildlife value than native species types
Habit Over Time: Forms neat, upright clumps that slowly expand from center. Burgundy-red foliage coloration intensifies through the growing season and provides outstanding fall and winter interest. Maintains excellent form through winter with persistent structure. More compact and colorful than straight species.
Height: Medium to Tall (3-4 feet)