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Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum, Poaceae

Zones
3–9
Layer
Herbaceous
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Fast

Guild Roles

Mulch MakerBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Partial Sun (acceptable)Full Sun (optimal)

Water

LowLow

Soil pH

5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Orange ConeflowerRudbeckia fulgida
Wind ProtectionNurse Plant
Big BluestemAndropogon gerardii
Beneficial Insect HabitatWind Protection
Jerusalem ArtichokeHelianthus tuberosus
Wind ProtectionPhysical Support

Antagonistic Plants

Rocky Mountain ColumbineAquilegia caerulea

Switchgrass density and growth inhibitors suppress columbine establishment

SunflowerHelianthus annuus

Annual sunflower can suppress switchgrass establishment through competition and allelopathic effects

Uses

Functions

Erosion ControlBiomassWildlife Habitat

Common Questions

What zones does Switchgrass grow in?

Switchgrass grows in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9.

What are good companion plants for Switchgrass?

Good companions for Switchgrass include Orange Coneflower, Big Bluestem, Jerusalem Artichoke.

Design guilds with Switchgrass and see companion relationships visually.

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