Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Fire' PP19367
Early August color
Common Name: Switch Grass, Ornamental Grass
A switch grass with sturdy, upright, blue-green stems and wine-red leaves. In the spring, the foliage is blue-green, but by early summer the leaves begin to turn a stunning shade of deep red. Most red switch grasses do not begin to turn color until late summer, so this grass is quite remarkable in that it changes color so early in the season.
In late summer, a bouquet of rosy panicles is displayed just above the foliage. When in bloom, the leaves curl slightly, which gives the impression of red ribbons woven throughout the flowers.
This selection was hybridized by Gary Trucks of Amber Wave Gardens in Michigan.
Switch grass gets its name from the peaceful swishing sound it makes when blowing in the wind. All parts of this grass are very sturdy, and will remain standing thru winter unless snows are heavy. This provides important cover for birds during the coldest days of winter. This grass is very versitile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
