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Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grasses (Panicum Virgatum Shenandoah)

Shenandoah Switchgrass is a striking ornamental grass valued for its upright growth, fine-textured foliage and rich red tones that develop as the growing season progresses. Known botanically as Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’, this attractive perennial brings colour, movement and structure to garden borders, prairie-style planting schemes and wildlife-friendly spaces.

Medium Growth Rate
Deciduous
Plant Guarantee

Planting Conditions: Grows well in well-drained soil of moderate fertility. It adapts to sandy, loamy and clay soils, provided excess water can drain away. Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry weather.
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun encourages the strongest growth and most intense foliage colour. The plant can tolerate partial shade, although its stems may become less upright and its red colouring may be less pronounced.
Growth Rate: Shenandoah Switchgrass has a moderate growth rate and gradually develops into an upright, clump-forming perennial. Allow around two to three years for it to establish its mature form under suitable growing conditions.
12 Month Guarantee on All Plants: Buy with confidence and enjoy added reassurance when choosing plants for your garden.

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Select Size & Quantity

	Height cm	Price inc VAT	Planting Density	Plants Quantity
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 2L	Regular price £6.00 Sale price £6.00 Regular price Unit price per
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 5L	Regular price £15.68 Sale price £15.68 Regular price Unit price per
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 7.5L	Regular price £23.90 Sale price £23.90 Regular price Unit price per

	Height cm	Price inc VAT	Planting Density	Pallet Quantity
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 2L (50 Plants)	Regular price £270.00 Sale price £270.00 Regular price Unit price per
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 5L (40 Plants)	Regular price £564.48 Sale price £564.48 Regular price Unit price per
	Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Pot Grown 7.5L (28 Plants)	Regular price £602.28 Sale price £602.28 Regular price Unit price per

Shenandoah Switchgrass Ornamental Grass Description

Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’ is a versatile ornamental grass that adds distinctive colour and architectural interest to gardens throughout the year. It typically reaches approximately 1.2 metres (4 feet) in height, forming a compact, upright clump that works well in mixed borders, contemporary gardens and naturalistic planting designs.

The foliage emerges green during the early part of the growing season before developing attractive red and burgundy tones as summer progresses. This gradual colour change creates a dynamic display, particularly when planted alongside green shrubs, flowering perennials or plants with contrasting foliage.

In late summer, Shenandoah Switchgrass produces delicate, airy flower panicles above its foliage. These flowers generally appear in pinkish or reddish tones before maturing to softer bronze shades. The seed heads and dried stems can continue to provide texture and visual interest during autumn and winter.

This Shenandoah switchgrass variety is particularly suitable for gardeners seeking a perennial grass that combines seasonal colour with a relatively straightforward care routine. Its upright habit makes it useful for adding height without creating an overly dense planting, while its fine foliage introduces movement as it catches the breeze.

For the best results, plant it in a sunny position with well-drained soil. It can be used as an individual feature plant or grouped with other ornamental grasses and perennials to create a layered, natural-looking landscape.

Pruning Advice

When to Prune: Cut back Shenandoah Switchgrass in late winter or early spring, before new shoots begin to emerge. Leaving the dried foliage and flower heads in place over winter provides additional garden structure and can offer shelter for wildlife.

How to Prune: Using clean, sharp secateurs or garden shears, cut the previous season's growth back to approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) above ground level. Take care not to damage any new shoots developing at the base of the plant.

Additional Care: This ornamental grass generally needs little maintenance once established. Remove damaged or untidy foliage when necessary, and avoid excessive feeding, which can encourage soft growth. If an established clump becomes overcrowded or loses vigour, divide it in early spring and replant the healthy sections.

Further Information

Seasonal Colour: The foliage develops from green to red and burgundy as the season advances. Its changing colours provide a seasonal display, while the flower panicles add complementary pinkish and bronze tones.

Wildlife Friendly: The flowers and seed heads contribute to a wildlife-friendly garden. The plant's structure can provide cover for small garden wildlife, and its seed heads may offer food for birds.

Low Maintenance: Once established in a suitable position, Shenandoah Switchgrass requires relatively little attention. It benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells while establishing, but generally becomes more tolerant of dry conditions as its root system develops.

Erosion Control: Like other established switchgrass varieties, it develops a substantial root system that can help bind soil. This makes it a useful option for suitable slopes and planting areas where soil stability is a consideration.

Structural Interest: Its upright stems and airy flower heads introduce height, texture and movement to planting schemes. The dried foliage can remain attractive through winter before being cut back in spring.

Planting Combinations: Pair Shenandoah Switchgrass with flowering perennials, other ornamental grasses or contrasting foliage plants to create a varied planting scheme. Allow enough space for the clump to develop without overcrowding neighbouring plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Shenandoah Switchgrass change colour throughout the year?

Yes. The foliage generally begins green and develops red and burgundy tones as the growing season progresses. The intensity of the colour depends on factors such as sunlight, weather and growing conditions, with sunny positions usually producing the strongest display.

2. Can Shenandoah Switchgrass be grown in a container?

It can be grown in a large, sturdy container with adequate drainage, although it generally performs best when planted in the ground. Choose a pot that allows room for root development, use a suitable free-draining growing medium and monitor watering more closely, as container-grown plants dry out faster than those in garden soil.

3. Is Shenandoah Switchgrass suitable for small gardens?

Yes. Its upright, clump-forming habit makes it suitable for many small and medium-sized gardens. With a typical mature height of around 1.2 metres, it adds height and texture without spreading into a broad, ground-covering mass. Allow sufficient room for the clump to develop.

4. Should Shenandoah Switchgrass be cut back in autumn?

It is generally better to leave the foliage standing through autumn and winter. The dried stems and seed heads provide seasonal structure and potential shelter for wildlife. Cut the plant back in late winter or early spring before fresh growth develops.

5. How can I encourage stronger red foliage on Shenandoah Switchgrass?

Plant it in a position that receives plenty of direct sunlight and ensure the soil drains well. Avoid excessive fertiliser, particularly high-nitrogen feeds, as these can encourage leafy growth at the expense of a compact habit. Remember that colour intensity naturally varies with the weather and growing conditions.

Delivery & Returns

Enjoy convenient delivery of your Shenandoah Switchgrass, with free delivery available within 50 miles of our nursery. Deliveries beyond this area may also be available depending on your location and order.

If you're unsure whether your property falls within our delivery area, please contact us before placing your order. Every plant is carefully prepared for delivery to help ensure it arrives in good condition.

For added peace of mind, your Shenandoah Switchgrass is covered by our 12 Month Guarantee On All Plants.

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