Switch Grass 'Red Sunset'

Red Sunset is a named selection of switch grass, a warm-season North American perennial grown for upright clumps, airy flower panicles and changing foliage. Chicago Botanic Garden records red blooms from July into autumn and lists the selection for USDA Zones 4–9. [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/panicum-virgatum-red-sunset-red-sunset-switch-grass) ## Seasonal display Blue-green foliage carries the vertical structure of the clump, while red flowering panicles add color from midsummer through fall. Leave stems standing into winter for seed heads and movement; remove them before new growth begins. ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun for the strongest flowering and color, though this selection tolerates partial shade. Choose a site with room for a mature clump and soil that drains well. Switch grasses are warm-season perennials, so new growth may emerge later in spring than cool-season grasses. ## Maintenance Cut old stems back close to the ground in late winter or early spring before fresh shoots lengthen. Water during establishment and prolonged dry spells; avoid routinely saturated soil. Winter stems add structure, but can be cut back sooner where a neat appearance is preferred.