Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Dog' is a compact upright switchgrass cultivar prized for its tidy clumping habit and strong vertical presence. Its narrow bluish green foliage transitions to golden tan in fall retaining interest through winter with its sturdy seed heads and persistent structure. This native ornamental grass provides shelter for wildlife and is ideal for low maintenance borders, meadows, and erosion control applications.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Adaptable to a wide range of soils including clay and sandy loam
Watering Needs: Low once established; drought tolerant
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer and rabbits
Native Status
Derived from the native North American species Panicum virgatum, 'Prairie Dog' maintains the ecological value of its parent, making it well suited for native plantings and habitat restoration.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Finches, sparrows, and other small birds feed on the seeds and take cover in the upright foliage during colder months.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides overwintering habitat for native predatory beetles and pollinator larvae in the plant’s dense base and spent stalks.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 18 - 24 in spacing to accommodate the mature clump width and promote air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent in sunny borders, native meadows, stormwater gardens, and massed for slope stabilization and winter structure.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan' - Clean white petals stand out among the airy seed heads of the switchgrass.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden yellow blooms create seasonal contrast and echo the grass's autumn tones.
- Liatris spicata 'Kobold' - Vertical purple blooms complement the upright form and attract pollinators.
- Amsonia hubrichtii - Feathery blue green foliage turns brilliant gold pairing well with Panicum's seasonal hues.
- Allium 'Millenium' - Mid summer lavender globes accentuate the fine foliage and draw bees and butterflies.