Panicum 'Ruby Ribbons' is an ornamental switchgrass prized for its upright habit and dramatic foliage color that transitions from blue green to rich burgundy and ruby tones through the season. Its airy reddish purple flower panicles appear in midsummer adding texture and movement to the landscape. This low maintenance drought tolerant grass provides year round visual interest, especially in fall and winter when the foliage persists.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average, well drained soils; tolerates poor soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate once established
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to coarse foliage
Native Status
Derived from Panicum virgatum, a warm season grass native to North America, providing excellent adaptability to various climates and soils.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Seed heads attract finches, sparrows, and other seed eating birds in fall and winter.
Butterflies
- Serves as a larval host for skipper butterflies and provides shelter for pollinators.
Beneficial Insects
- Dense clumps offer habitat for predatory beetles and overwintering beneficial insects.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 24 - 36 in apart for full clump development and airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for borders, naturalistic plantings, and as an accent in meadow gardens or mixed perennial beds.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium 'Standing Ovation' - Complementary upright native grass that enhances textural variety in the garden.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Airy lavender blue plumes offer a cooling contrast and extended seasonal interest.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Deep purple spikes punctuate the planting and attract pollinators.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Bright golden blooms contrast vividly with the burgundy foliage of the grass.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Tall pink daisy like flowers echo the warm hues and provide midseason color.