Shenandoah switch grass (Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’) is a striking, native ornamental grass that has gained popularity in recent years for its beauty, versatility, and low maintenance. With its distinctive, reddish-purple foliage and tall, feathery plumes, this grass adds texture, movement, and color to any landscape. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the characteristics of Shenandoah switch grass and provide practical tips on planting, care, and incorporating it into your landscape design.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Sporting one of the best burgundy foliage of all switch grasses, Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’ is a deciduous, perennial grass of choice. It forms an erect, compact and narrow clump of steely blue-green foliage in spring, which quickly takes on red tones by early summer and turns violet, purple, burgundy and wine-red by early fall. It gets topped in summer with a profusion of finely-textured, reddish-pink flower spikelets which hover over the foliage like an airy cloud. Both flowers and foliage turn beige in fall and persist well into winter.
Like many North American prairie grasses, switch grass is a long-lived, warm-season grower. Quite sturdy, even when dry or dormant, it stands through winter (unless your area enjoys heavy snow falls), providing essential cover for birds.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
When choosing a location for Shenandoah switch grass, consider its sunlight requirements and mature size. This grass prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. Ensure that the planting site receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Additionally, provide enough space for the grass to grow to its full size without crowding other plants or encroaching on walkways.
Watering and Irrigation
While Shenandoah switch grass is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during its first growing season. Provide the plant with approximately one inch of water per week, either through rainfall or supplemental irrigation. Once established, the grass can tolerate drier conditions, but occasional deep watering during extended dry spells is still beneficial.
Soil
Shenandoah switch grass is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it thrives best in well-draining soil. Prior to planting, amend heavy clay or compacted soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve drainage and fertility.
Fertilizing
Shenandoah switch grass requires minimal fertilization. In most cases, an annual application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. If your soil is particularly poor, you may consider a second application in midsummer, but avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced drought tolerance.
Planting Tips
When planting Shenandoah switch grass, dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Gently loosen the roots if they are pot-bound, then place the plant in the hole at the same depth it was growing in the container. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the root ball to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle.
Pruning
Prune Shenandoah switch grass in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Cut the grass back to about 4-6 inches above the ground, using sharp, clean pruning shears. This helps to remove dead foliage and promote vigorous new growth.
III. Uses and Benefits
- Mass Plantings
Shenandoah switch grass makes a stunning statement when planted en masse. Use it as a ground cover in large, open areas or to create a striking backdrop for shorter perennials and annuals. The eye-catching color and texture provide a visual anchor in the landscape, while the grass’s natural, flowing movement adds a sense of dynamism.
- Borders and Edging
Use Shenandoah switch grass as a tall, colorful border or edging plant along walkways, patios, or garden beds. Its upright growth habit creates a strong vertical element in the landscape, while the seasonal color changes add interest throughout the year.
- Rain Gardens and Bioswales
Shenandoah switch grass is an excellent choice for rain gardens and bioswales, as it is tolerant of both wet and dry conditions. Plant it alongside other water-loving plants to create an attractive, functional landscape feature that helps manage stormwater runoff and prevent erosion.
- Slope Stabilization and Erosion Control
The deep, fibrous root system of Shenandoah Switch grass makes it an effective plant for stabilizing slopes and controlling erosion. Plant it on banks or steep inclines to help hold the soil in place and prevent soil loss during heavy rains.
- Wildlife Habitat and Pollinator Gardens
Incorporating Shenandoah switch grass into wildlife habitats and pollinator gardens can provide valuable resources for native fauna. The grass offers shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals, while its flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
- Combining with Other Ornamental Grasses and Perennials
Shenandoah Switch grass pairs well with other ornamental grasses and perennials, creating a dynamic, multi-textured landscape. Consider combining it with plants like purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’), blue oat grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens), or feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’). Pairing it with complementary perennials, such as coneflowers (Echinacea spp.), black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia spp.), or Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), can create a visually striking garden display.
- Using Shenandoah Switch Grass as a Privacy Screen
With its tall, dense growth habit, Shenandoah switch grass can serve as an effective privacy screen in the landscape. Plant it in a row or staggered pattern along property lines or near outdoor living spaces to create a living barrier that offers both privacy and beauty.
- Container Gardening
Shenandoah switch grass also works well in containers, either as a standalone specimen or combined with other plants. Choose a large, well-draining container and ensure the grass receives adequate sunlight and water. The dramatic foliage and plumes provide a stunning focal point in any container garden.
Shenandoah switch grass is a versatile, low-maintenance ornamental grass that brings color, texture, and movement to the landscape. By understanding its growth habits, proper planting techniques, and care requirements, you can easily incorporate this stunning native grass into your garden design. With its striking appearance and adaptability, Shenandoah switch grass is a valuable addition to any landscape.
