Panicum virgatum aka Blackwell Switchgrass

Taxonomy

Panicum virgatum, commonly known as switchgrass, is a deciduous perennial warm season bunchgrass that is native to North America. It can be found naturally from Canada down to Mexico, occurring in the central North American tallgrass prairie, remnant prairies, native grass pastures, and along roadsides. This grass is highly versatile and is used for various purposes including soil conservation, forage production, game cover, ornamental purposes, phytoremediation projects, fiber production, generating electricity and heat, biosequestration of carbon dioxide, and as a biomass crop for ethanol and butanol. Switchgrass has flat and linear leaves that start off mid-green and mature to a purple color from the tips to the length of the leaves. In late summer to early autumn, it produces airy purple panicles, followed by purple seed heads. This rhizomatous grass forms clumps of purple-flushed, mid-green stems with upright, flat, linear mid-green leaves that turn yellow in autumn and light brown in winter. During early autumn, broad, pendent panicles of tiny, purple-green flower spikelets bloom. Switchgrass is also known by other common names such as tall panic grass, Wobsqua grass, blackbent, tall prairiegrass, wild redtop, thatchgrass, and Virginia switchgrass. With its range of uses and attractive appearance, Panicum virgatum is a valuable and versatile grass species.

Common names

Blackwell Switchgrass, Blackwell Switch Grass, Switch Grass

How to care for Blackwell Switchgrass

Difficulty

Caring for Blackwell Switchgrass is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Blackwell Switchgrass should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Blackwell Switchgrass loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Blackwell Switchgrass requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Blackwell Switch Grass is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Blackwell Switchgrass should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia