Grasses
Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Sky'
Prairie Sky switchgrass
Blue foliage and a haze of fine flower panicles give this switchgrass selection a light, open texture. It brings cool color and movement to sunny mixed borders and naturalistic plantings. Leave the dry stems standing through winter for structure and wildlife food, then cut them back before spring growth.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade; best form in full sun
- Mature size
- 4–6 ft. tall × 2–3 ft. wide
- Water
- Average to wet; tolerates dry spells once established
- Hardiness
- USDA 4–9
Sizes & prices
- #1$12.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Generally resistant; not browse-proof.
- Drought
- Tolerant once established.
- Wet soil
- Tolerates occasional flooding.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Birds
- Seeds provide food
Native range
- Native range / parentage
- Cultivar of a North American native grass. Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
- Tristate native status
- Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
Seasonal interest
- Habit
- Clumping, warm-season grass.
Growing & care
- Pruning
- Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Soil
- Adaptable to clay or sandy soil; full sun helps prevent flopping.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image notes: Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Sky'; resized for web display.
Reviewed October 1, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.