Autumn brings quiet brilliance to the Midwest landscape. Few plants embody the seasonal transitions as gracefully as perennial grasses. These fall favorites lend dynamic movement and a sophisticated backdrop that persists well into winter.
Shenandoah Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’)
Switch Grass Varieties
Among the varieties we grow at Loma Vista Nursery, switch grass stands out for its hardiness and versatility. ‘Shenandoah’ Switch Grass, for example, is arguably the most beloved cultivar for its early and intense fiery-red foliage. Its leaves take on deep burgundy tones in mid-summer, long before many other grasses even hint at change. Maturing at 3 to 4 feet tall and slightly narrower, ‘Shenandoah’ maintains an upright, airy habit.
Another switch grass is ‘Northwind’ Switch Grass. Known for its unusually rigid form, this cultivar is a narrow, architectural pillar that doesn’t flop. It grows taller than ‘Shenandoah’, commonly reaching 5 to 6 feet, yet remains only about 2 to 3 feet wide.
Prairie Winds® ‘Cheyenne Sky’ Red Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum)
Joining this group is Prairie Winds® ‘Cheyenne Sky’ Red Switch Grass, prized for its tight, upright habit and earlier emergence of deep, wine-red coloration than many other Panicum types. It holds a more vertical, vase-like shape, growing to perhaps 30 inches tall, making it a compact choice for smaller spaces.
All three switch grasses are tough American natives, requiring full sun to achieve their dense, upright habit and best coloring. They are exceptionally drought-tolerant once established and provide significant sustainable benefits. Their deep, fibrous root systems improve soil structure and prevent erosion.
Northwind Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’)
Switch grasses tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. But do ensure good drainage, especially if your site has heavier clay. Dig a hole twice as wide as the container and settle in the plant at the same depth it was growing previously.
Little Bluestem
In contrast to switch grass, little bluestem varieties offer finer textures and distinctively blue colors in summer. ‘Carousel’ Little Bluestem is a compact choice—a swirling mound that reaches only about 18 to 24 inches in both height and width. Stems create a dense, durable cushion and turn brilliant shades of copper, purple and red in the fall.
Little bluestems are native American prairie plants, perfectly suited for full sun and notoriously adaptable. They flourish even in poor, dry, gravelly soils where other plants might fail. This resilience speaks to the plant’s lore as a keystone species of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem.
When planting bluestems, remember their preference for well-drained conditions. Excessive soil amendments or overly rich soils can cause them to flop. Plant them in a sunny spot and avoid pampering the soil too much.
Rounding out our key selections is the perennial favorite, maiden grass. While many Miscanthus varieties exist, the species earns value for its elegant, arching fountains of foliage and towering, tassel-like plumes that emerge in late summer. Maiden grass can easily reach 5 to 7 feet tall at maturity and has a similar spread. Give it plenty of space to express its graceful habit.
‘Carousel’ Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Carousel’)
Maiden grass prefers full sun to light shade and consistently moist, fertile soil. Unlike the prairie natives, this species appreciates slightly richer, consistently watered soil. Give it plenty of room at planting time, digging a large hole and backfilling with organic matter to help retain moisture. Its popularity in gardens and landscapes is due to its impressive winter presence. Tan foliage and silver-white plumes create a stunning contrast against fresh snow, providing habitat and visual interest through the colder months.
For best color and sturdiest habit, plant perennial grasses in full sun with six or more hours of direct light daily. Place the crown of the grass at the same level as the surrounding grade. Thorough watering is essential to settle the soil.
Maiden Grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’)
Perennial grasses define low-maintenance sophistication in an ecologically mindful landscape. Seed heads are winter food for birds and foliage is shelter for small animals. Maintenance is surprisingly simple.
Cut perennial grasses back in late winter or early spring, just before new growth emerges. Old foliage acts as insulation for the crown and provides unique winter texture and color. Use sharp shears or a hedge trimmer to cut grasses down to about 6 inches from the ground.
Unlike turfgrass, perennial grasses do not require supplemental fertilizer. Their sustainability lies in their low-input nature and drought tolerance. Once established, they ask for very little beyond the occasional deep watering during extreme drought conditions.
Learn More About Loma Vista Nursery’s Landscape Plants
Loma Vista Nursery grows a variety of perennial grasses, perennial plants, trees and shrubs for Midwest landscapes. Our customers—Midwest independent garden centers, landscape contractors and wholesale distributors—rely on our team of plant experts to learn about the healthy, reliable varieties we grow.
Review Loma Vista Nursery’s plant catalog for detailed information, and visit our website to learn about our values and best practices as a wholesale Midwest plant grower. For assistance with orders or plant-related questions, please send an email to sales@lomavistanursery.com or call (785) 229-7200.
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