{"id":31572,"date":"2020-09-20T12:34:22","date_gmt":"2020-09-20T16:34:22","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/dnr\/?p=31572"},"modified":"2020-10-05T14:34:38","modified_gmt":"2020-10-05T18:34:38","slug":"native-plant-profile-switchgrass-panicum-virgatum","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/dnr\/2020\/09\/20\/native-plant-profile-switchgrass-panicum-virgatum\/","title":{"rendered":"Native Plant Profile: Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)"},"content":{"rendered":"
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By Matt Levin CC by SA 2.0<\/p><\/div>\n

Switchgrass (<\/span>Panicum virgatum<\/span><\/i>) is a native, warm season grass that is an excellent replacement for invasive Chinese silvergrass (<\/span>Miscanthus sinensis<\/span><\/i>). This large, bunching grass grows 3-7 feet high and has a 2-3 foot spread. In addition, its extensive root system grows 5-6 feet deep, making it a great plant to assist with stabilizing banks. The roots also help it to tolerate droughts and floods too!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Switchgrass grows from a cluster of rhizomes. It is an early maturing warm season grass that begins growth in April. Switchgrass can be distinguished from other warm season grasses by the white patch of hairs found where the leaf attaches to the stem. Often, it flowers and fruits in late May through early June. The open panicles of flowers are wind pollinated and give way to tiny rose-tinged seeds. Species of several songbirds have been found to consume the seeds.\u00a0<\/span>
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Switchgrass can be found growing wild throughout much of Maryland, except for some areas in the western part of the state. It tolerates dry to moderately wet sites and prefers to grow in full sun conditions. If planted in partially shaded and\/or nutrient rich soils, the clumps tend to fall over so staking may be required. Switchgrass can thrive in rain gardens and can tolerate areas under black walnut trees too. In the right conditions, switchgrass can self-seed and spread. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the plants to prevent them from taking over.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Switchgrass \u2018Shenandoah\u2019 by mwms1916 CC by NC ND 2.0<\/p><\/div>\n

Switchgrass provides food and shelter for a number of local wildlife. Patches of switchgrass, along with other meadow plants, can provide food and cover for upland game species, such as rabbit and quail. Switchgrass is a host plant for the many species of butterflies including the Hobomok Skipper, Delaware Skipper, Leonard’s Skipper, and Northern Broken-Dash. The thick clumps can provide shelter in winter. Therefore, it is recommended that switchgrass stalks aren\u2019t cut back until early spring when new growth appears.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A variety of switchgrass cultivars can be found in the nursery trade. A few of these cultivars include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n