Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum

Warm season, strongly rhizomatous, open sod-former found on a wide variety of sites where moisture is adequate; 3-5 ft. tall. Found on prairies, open oak and pine woodlands, shores, riverbanks and brackish marshes. Abundant forage producer in Warm-season pastures and as high quality hay. Highly palatable and nutritious to both livestock and wildlife. Seed is sought by birds and small mammals. Also useful for controlling soil erosion, land reclamation and range improvement. Some use in bioenergy production due to its ability to yield high amounts of biomass on marginal quality ground.