Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Dog' (‘Prairie Dog’ switchgrass)

‘Prairie Dog’ switchgrass (Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Dog') 

Height, Spread: 3-4 ft, 2-3 ft

Water/Soil: Moist-wet, clay, sand

Light: Full sun

Bloom: Summer-fall, rose-colored panicles

Native Range: North America

Qualities: Wildlife resource, Host plant, Attractive to pollinators, Somewhat deer-resistant, drought tolerant once established

Notes: Perennial warm-season ornamental grass cultivar. 'Prairie Dog' is known for its blueish-colored foliage, short stature, and sturdy stems. Panicum virgatum is commonly found alongside roads, streams, and in woodlands. It is a host plant to several Skipper butterfly species and the Common Wood-Nymph butterfly. Pollinators will eat the rotting fruits and flower nectar. Birds and small mammals will eat its seeds and use its foliage for cover. Best used in mass plantings or as an accent piece in a garden or near pond or stream banks.