Northwind Switchgrass
Northwind switchgrass is a tall ornamental grass known for it's very upright form. It makes a beautiful, easy care ornamental grass, especially when planted in masses. The low-maintenance grass makes a great background plant or focal point in both residential and commercial landscapes.
Highly recommended for Colorado Springs.
Northwind Switchgrass
Northwind switchgrass is a tall ornamental grass known for it's very upright form. It makes a beautiful, easy care ornamental grass, especially when planted in masses. The low-maintenance grass makes a great background plant or focal point in both residential and commercial landscapes.
Highly recommended for Colorado Springs.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'
Pronunciation
PAN-ih-kum vir-GA-tum
Mature Height
4 to 6 ft.
Mature Spread
24 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
blonde seedheads
Bloom time
fall
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
species is native to most of the United States
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 7,000 ft.
Performance
Northwind switchgrass is an excellent performer at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden. It's upright form makes it look neat and tidy, and is resistant to being crushed by snow. Beautiful seedheads top the plant in fall, adding to its fall and winter interest. Highly recommended.
Maintenance
Cut to ground level in late winter before new growth begins. In general, switchgrasses emerge later in spring, so it can take a while green up.