Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

This native grass is a warm season perennial that dominates the prairies. It grows tall and in clumps through underground rhizomes. It naturally turns a pale yellow color in the fall but some cultivars are known to be more colorful. It is a good food for livestock when young and is great for erosion control. Switchgrass would be a wonderful addition to wildlife gardens. It provides shelter for small animals as well as food for many birds throughout fall and winter. This is also a wonderful grass to add to a garden or as a screening border, the clumps can reach up to 2 feet wide and they look great planted in large groups.