Panicum virgatum (Switch Grass)
Color Name: Totem Pole
A mental image of a totem pole brings to mind a tall, narrow, majestic structure-the exact imagery to apply to this ornamental grass! Totem Pole forms a very upright column of steel blue foliage and powdery blue stems. In early fall, the top of the clump explodes with golden seed panicles. The narrow base of the plant makes it an ideal candidate for small spaces in the garden that need height and vertical structure.
Switch grass gets its name from the peaceful swishing sound it makes when blowing in the wind. All parts of this grass are very sturdy, and will remain standing thru winter unless snows are heavy. This provides important cover for birds during the coldest days of winter. This grass is very versatile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
Growing Tips: Panicum is a native grass that is very easy to grow and is a good grass for beginners. It will grow in any soil, from sand to clay, is drought tolerant once established, and even withstands periodic flooding. Grow this grass in full sun. It will tolerate light shade, but will flop over if the shade is too heavy. Panicum is wind and salt tolerant, making it a good choice for seaside gardens or along roads that are salted in winter.
Photo courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
A mental image of a totem pole brings to mind a tall, narrow, majestic structure-the exact imagery to apply to this ornamental grass! Totem Pole forms a very upright column of steel blue foliage and powdery blue stems. In early fall, the top of the clump explodes with golden seed panicles. The narrow base of the plant makes it an ideal candidate for small spaces in the garden that need height and vertical structure.
Switch grass gets its name from the peaceful swishing sound it makes when blowing in the wind. All parts of this grass are very sturdy, and will remain standing thru winter unless snows are heavy. This provides important cover for birds during the coldest days of winter. This grass is very versatile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
Growing Tips: Panicum is a native grass that is very easy to grow and is a good grass for beginners. It will grow in any soil, from sand to clay, is drought tolerant once established, and even withstands periodic flooding. Grow this grass in full sun. It will tolerate light shade, but will flop over if the shade is too heavy. Panicum is wind and salt tolerant, making it a good choice for seaside gardens or along roads that are salted in winter.
Photo courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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Flower Color: Golden Seed Panicles Foliage Color: Blue/Green Shades
Height: 5 to 6 Feet Spread: 2 to 3 Feet Hardy in Zone: 4, 5, 6 |
Blooms: Fall Late Summer
Foliage Season: All Season |
Exposure
Full Sun
Partial Shade
Soil Moisture Needs
Moderate
Attributes |
 Native  Dried Flower  Container Mass Planting Easy to Grow Drought Tolerant Cut Flower or Foilage Border Salt Tolerant Specimen Plant
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Critter Resistance
Deer
