Shenandoah Switch Grass

Shenandoah is a named selection of switch grass with red-tipped foliage that deepens in color as the season progresses. Cambridge University Botanic Garden describes a clump-forming perennial about 1 m tall and wide, with purple-green spikelets in late summer. [Cambridge University Botanic Garden](https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/the-garden/plant-list/panicum-virgatum-shenandoah/) ## Seasonal display Red foliage tips become more pronounced through summer and can turn burgundy in fall. Airy panicles rise above the foliage in late summer, adding movement and texture. Wisconsin Horticulture notes the selection’s early red leaf tips and burgundy fall color. [Wisconsin Horticulture](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/switch-grass-panicum-virgatum/) ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun in a well-drained site for the strongest color and flowering. Switch grass is a warm-season perennial; allow for later spring emergence. The existing recorded size is consistent with the Cambridge garden’s approximate 1 m description. ## Maintenance Leave stems through winter if you want their structure and seed heads. Cut the previous year’s growth close to the ground in late winter or early spring before new shoots lengthen. Water during establishment and extended dry periods, while avoiding persistently waterlogged soil.