Switchgrass
(Panicum virgatum)
Other Information
Physical Characteristics
Type: Grass
Height: 3 - 6 ft
Spread: 2 - 4 ft
Flower Color: Yellow / Purple
Flower Time: Summer (Jul - Oct)
Fruit Type: Caryopsis
Fruit Color: Tan
Autumn Color: Tan / Gold / Bronze
Sun Conditions: Full Sun / Part Shade
Shade Tolerance: Low
Moisture Preference: Low / Medium / High
Deer Resistance*: High
Dog Safe**: Yes
Conservation Status (MD): SNR - Unranked
Other Names: Panic Grass
*Deer resistance can vary based on many factors
**Always consult with a veterinarian about plants toxic to dogs and other animals
Wildlife Benefits:
Switchgrass provides excellent year round cover. The seeds are a winter food source to many birds and small mammals. Plants are larval hosts to 27 Lepidoptera (Butterfly and moth) species.