Panicum virgatum 'Cape Breeze' is a compact upright switchgrass cultivar selected for its clean form and resilience in coastal or windy conditions. It features soft green foliage that turns golden in fall along with airy flower panicles in late summer.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils; tolerant of clay, loam, and sandy types
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from the North American native species Panicum virgatum and retains its ecological value and adaptability to native plantings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Provides seeds for songbirds such as finches and sparrows and nesting cover for ground nesting birds.
Moths
- Supports caterpillars of native moth species such as the Delaware Skipper and various grass moths.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart for upright form and airflow between clumps.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for rain gardens, low maintenance borders, or coastal landscapes where its sturdy form and salt tolerance shine.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea pallida (Pale Purple Coneflower) - Adds vertical bloom spikes and attracts pollinators in summer.
- Pycnanthemum tenuifolium (Narrowleaf Mountain Mint) - Provides pollinator support and aromatic foliage.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds red fall foliage and complements the form of switchgrass.
- Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm) - A nectar rich plant for bees that offers upright, layered blooms.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Bright golden sprays contrast with the fine seed heads of Panicum.