Panicum amarum

Bitter Switchgrass is a ridiculously hardy, ridiculously tough ornamental grass that can be found growing anywhere from the most elegant garden to the side of the road. The arching blue-green leaves are attractive throughout the growing season, but the real show comes when the airy pink flower panicles appear in late summer or early fall. This salt tolerant grass is commonly used along beaches for erosion control, but will tolerate a wide variety of conditions.

Zones: 2-9
Family: Poaceae
Type: Deciduous Grass
Height: 36 to 48 inches
Spread: 24 to 36 inches
Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Conditions: Average, dry, lean, undemanding
Bloom Time: August to October
Native Range: sandy dunes and shores in coastal areas from Connecticut to Florida to Texas