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Switchgrass

Botanical Name
Panicum virgatum
Min Zone
4
Max Zone
9
Height
3 to 8 feet
Width
2 to 3 feet
Flowers
Mid to late summer: silver, dark red to purple; airy panicles
Fall Color
Tan to gold
Light
Full sun
Soil
Moist, tolerates dry
Planting & Care
  • Open and floppy in shade
  • Tolerates wind and salt spray
  • Cut back in late winter before new growth begins
Problems
None serious
Varieties
  • Shenandoah - 36 inches, bright red streaked foliage, red flowers in late summer
  • Northwind - 4 to 6 feet, upright, bluish-green foliage, fine winter interest

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