Switchgrass is one of the “Big Four” dominant grasses of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. It is very deeply rooted, allowing it to find moisture in times of drought, and nutrients in very poor soils. It is one of the most widely planted native ornamental grasses in eastern North America due to its reliability, adaptability and beauty. 'Northwind' is a cultivated variety of our native Panicum virgatum, bred for its distinctly vertical, architectural form. It has a tight, fountaining appearance with wide, dark green leaves and its flowers are silver to copper airy panicles in summer, turning straw colored by fall. It provides excellent winter interest as it rustles in the wind and it remains a substantial element in the landscape. It can be cut back in spring before new growth begins, the only maintenance this grass needs to look tidy in the garden.This cultivar was discovered by Roy Diblik in Illinois, growing beside a railroad track. He opened Northwind Perennial Farm in 1992 and named this selection after the nurserySources:
The Know Maintenance Perennial Garden by Roy Diblik
Missouri Botanical Garden
New Moon Nursery
Grow Native! Salt-Tolerant Native Plants
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Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' (Northwind' Switchgrass) - 2 gal
Northwind' Switchgrass
Plant Care & Installation Quick-Guide
Proper acclimation and installation are key to your plant's success. Please cross-reference these tips with your plant's specific ID tags:
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Pre-Planting: Store plants in a light-appropriate area on soil or grass (avoid hot concrete or asphalt) and water daily until the soil is saturated and the pot feels heavy. If temperatures drop below 30°F, move pots to a garage or cover them to prevent root freeze.
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Installation: Dig a hole matching the depth of the pot, remove the fabric container, and ensure the plant’s crown or root flare is level with the ground. Fill gaps with soil, water heavily, and apply 2 inches of mulch—keeping it clear of the stem.
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Ongoing Care: Check moisture daily by feeling 1–2 inches into the soil; water deeply at the base if the soil feels dry or warm. Newly installed plants require frequent watering (up to 3–4 times weekly in heat) until fully established, which can take a few months for perennials and up to two years for trees.