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Poaceae
Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Fire' PPAF
Prairie Fire Switchgrass, Red Switchgrass, Switchgrass
The foliage of 'Prairie Fire' turns burgundy red in early summer, long before other cultivars turn color. It is one of numerous selections of a switchgrass, a hardy, adaptable, and ornamental perennial bunchgrass native to fields and prairies of the United States and Canada.
The blades of this switchgrass are long, narrow, densely packed and upright. It forms vigorous clumps that spread over time and become quite bushy. Large airy pinkish floral plumes appear from midsummer to mid-autumn on erect stems, creating a soft, cloud-like effect. In winter, the wine-red foliage and persistent seedheads may be left uncut to provide interest and bird food.
Switchgrass prefers full sun and well-drained, moderately moist soil. This tough plant tolerates a wide range of soil types from sandy to clay-rich. It also exhibits reasonable drought resistance once established. Its dry foliage should be cut back in the spring just before the fresh blades begin to peek up from the soil line. It may self sow, but not aggressively. This big bold grass looks especially lovely when planted in sweeps among colorful composites and other tall bright perennials.
9 - 1
4 - 9
1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23
Grass
Full Sun, Partial Sun
36"-42" / 91.4cm - 106.7cm
2'-4' / 0.6m - 1.2m
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
North America, Canada, Mexico
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Pollution, Drought, Soil Compaction
Fast
Drought Tolerant
Upright/Erect
Summer, Fall, Winter
Showy
Light Pink, Tan
Tan, Sandy Brown
Green, Light Green
Green, Burgundy
Tan, Sandy Brown, Burgundy
No
Single
Yes
Fine
Matte
Container, Cutflower, Dried Flower/Everlasting, Feature Plant, Foundation, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Wildflower
Birds
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