Easy to grow and remarkably versatile, Panicum virgatum, commonly known as Switch grass, is a warm-season ornamental grass that thrives in USDA Zones 4-10. It emerges as days lengthen and temperatures rise, offering attractive flowering spikes and color-changing foliage that last through summer and fall. Even in winter, its sturdy, upright form adds seasonal interest while providing essential habitat for small birds.

Thanks to ongoing breeding, modern Panicum varieties now offer expanded choices in colors, sizes, and forms—enhancing its appeal in everything from naturalistic plantings to contemporary garden designs.

pictured above,

An Emerald Coast Growers exclusive, Panicum v. 'Hot Rod' PP26074

Rev up to the red zone! Earlier blooming for increased value.

The firmly upright blades emerge blue-green, then redden rapidly until the whole plant is a rich, deep maroon.

Height 3.5'

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A hardy North American native, Switch grass is valued for its adaptability and longevity. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and requires minimal maintenance, making it a favorite among gardeners and landscape professionals alike.

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'Shenandoah'

Height: 4'

Deep green foliage gradually takes on red hues transforming to luscious burgundy-wine red by September.

Highly valued for its tight clumping habit and delicate spray of panicles.

'Rotstrahlbusch'

Height: 4'

Upright and arching, this nicely sized vintage cultivar has beautiful touches of deep red color throughout autumn.

May retain green coloring in hotter climates.

'Prairie Sky'

Height:5'

Grows in a wide range of soils and moisture levels.

The upright, arching truly blue foliage produces sandy-colored flower spikes in fall.

'Heavy Metal'

Height: 5'

Glaucous blue leaves.

Its strongly upright habit creates a formal columnar shape softened by delicate seed heads.

'Dallas Blues'

Height: 5-6'

Large, pastel-pink seed heads over showy wide blue leaves.

Bigger blooms and wider blades than many varieties, in true Texas style.

'Northwind'

Height: 7'

Perennial Plant of the Year 2014.

Red flower panicles float over wide, steel-blue foliage that turns golden yellow in fall.

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The Panicum v. Dream Catcher® series from Dave MacKenzie of Hortech Inc.

Smoky Rose® PPAF

Height: 3.5'

A round spray of flowers floats daintily atop upright columnar foliage giving a neat, bouquet-like appearance.

Tumbleweed® PPAF

Height: 3'

Compact and tidy habit.

Early flowers are bright purple and deepen in color through fall.

Wispy panicles form a unique spherical shape.

Huggy Purple® PPAF

Height: 5'

Nicely arching green foliage with sprays of purple blooms in midsummer.

The foliage darkens to deep purple as summer turns to fall.

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Don't panic! Your timing is just right. We've got you covered with ready-to-go Panicum v. liners from Emerald Coast Growers – your easy choice!