Panicum 'Shenandoah'

Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah': Compact Form, Fiery Finish

Compact and richly coloured, Panicum 'Shenandoah' is one of the most vibrant switch grasses for garden use. Its upright blue-green blades begin to blush burgundy by early summer, intensifying to deep wine-red as the season progresses. In late summer, delicate reddish flower panicles float above the foliage, adding movement and softness to its bold form. With its manageable size and dramatic foliage, 'Shenandoah' brings the beauty of prairie grasses to smaller gardens, borders, and mixed plantings with ease and style.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–120 cm (in flower)
• Spread: 60–75 cm
• Flower Colour: Reddish-pink maturing to tan
• Flowering Period: Late summer to fall
• Foliage: Blue-green turning deep burgundy to red
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained to moderately moist soils; drought tolerant once established

Uses and Benefits: 'Shenandoah' is a striking focal point in sunny borders, cottage gardens, and prairie-inspired designs. Its rich foliage colour adds contrast and warmth, while its tidy habit makes it suitable for tighter spaces and container use. Long-lived, low maintenance, and deer resistant, this cultivar provides colour and texture well into winter.

Companion Plants: Pair Panicum 'Shenandoah' with Aster x frikartii 'Monch' for cool, lavender-blue blooms that contrast its red tones. Add Coreopsis grandiflora 'Baby Sun' for compact golden daisies that echo the grass’s warm highlights. Introduce Sedum 'Firecracker' at the base for deep red foliage and late-season texture that complements the grass’s autumn show.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Water during the first growing season to establish roots. Once mature, it’s drought tolerant and thrives in a wide range of soils. Leave foliage and plumes standing through winter for seasonal interest, and cut back in early spring. Divide every few years to refresh growth and maintain a tidy clump.

History: Selected in the United States for its vivid red foliage and compact habit, 'Shenandoah' is a cultivar of the native Panicum virgatum. Its consistent colour and garden-friendly size have made it a favourite among designers and home gardeners alike.

Final Thoughts: Bold in colour but modest in scale, Panicum 'Shenandoah' delivers a brilliant blend of texture, form, and fiery fall drama—perfect for bringing prairie beauty to every corner of the garden.