Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch'

RHS Plant Profile
switch grass 'Rotstrahlbusch'
switch grass 'Rotstrahlbusch' RHS
Grass Like

An upright, clump-forming perennial about 1.2m tall. The green leaves, to 10mm wide, begin acquiring reddish tones in mid-summer before turning a deep burgundy red in autumn and fading to a tan colour in winter. The leaves are topped with airy clouds of pink-tinged flower panicles in mid-summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Poaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Panicum can be annual or perennial, evergreen or deciduous grasses, with flat, narrowly lanceolate leaves, with large finely branched panicles of small spikelets in late summer or autumn
Name Status
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. See ornamental grasses cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Gravel garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Prairie planting
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut back clumps to the ground in late winter or early spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free