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Panicum virgatum Prairie Fire
Prairie Fire Switch Grass (Red Switch Grass): Patent PP19367
In the spring, the foliage is blue-green, by summer it has changed to a stunning red colour. In late summer, rosy panicles are displayed, and when in bloom, the leaves curl slightly, giving the impression of red ribbons running throughout the flowers.
- » Forms a tight, upright clump of blue-green foliage
- » Pinkish-red, airy, cloud-like panicles rise above the foliage
- » Leaves turn a dark wine-red in early summer, starting at the tips
- » The foliage and flower turn beige-brown for the winter
- » Bloom Time: Late summer
- » Flower Height: 150 cm
- » Foliage Height: 125 cm
- » Grass Type: Warm Season
Exposure
| • | Full Sun |
Attracts Wildlife
| • | Attracts Birds |
Growth Rate
| • | Medium |
Critter
| • | Deer Resistant |
Attributes
| • | Cut Flower/Foliage |
| • | Deciduous |
| • | Dried Flower/Foliage |
| • | Fall Color |
| • | Heat Tolerant |
| • | Long Blooming |
| • | Salt Tolerant |
| • | Low Maintenance |
| • | Juglan Tolerant |
Planting instructions
| • | Container Plants |
Additional Information about Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Fire'
Warm Season Grasses: These grasses are much slower starting in the spring. They do not push new growth until temperatures warm in early to midsummer. They flower later in the summer or fall with most blooms remaining into the winter. Most warm season grasses tolerate heat, humidity and drought; some even thrive in these conditions.
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Fire'
This grass grows in a wide variety of soil conditions from wet to average, and is drought tolerant, once established. Grows best in full sun and will flop over if grown in shade or overly rich soils. It should be pruned back to 10 cm above ground level in early spring.