 |
 |
| Home | Contact Us | Links | Publications | Search | Join Us | |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
| Home | Contact Us | Links | Publications | Search | Join Us | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Indicator Species | ||
| Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum) | ||
 |
Switch grass is another core species of the tallgrass prairie. It grows in big leafy clumps up to 2.1 m (7 ft) in height and on a range of soil types. The flowers are purple in colour but fade to tan. The inflorescence (assemblage of flowers on the stem) is sparse and delicate as the thin, wiry branches are naked for most of their length. Overall, the seed head has a diamond shape in profile. The Latin name virgatum, means wand-like. In the winter, switch grass is yellow or straw coloured, providing a touch of brightness on dark days. This grass is also a good forage plant for cattle. | |
|
Tallgrass Ontario |
|
|
Tel: (519)873-4631 |
