Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'
A tall and stiffly upright form but not as rigid as some cultivars. Found and named by Roy Diblik after his Northwind Perennial Farm. Features attractive yellow fall colouring and excellent winter structure. The upright columnar habit creates strong vertical accent.
Perennial Plant Association Plant of Year 2014. Native to North American prairies. The stiff upright form provides architectural interest. Suitable for back of borders, screening, and prairie gardens. The yellow fall colour is attractive. The winter structure remains effective. More upright than many switch grasses. Adaptable to various soils and conditions. Low maintenance once established.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun
Moisture: average
Soil: average
Hardiness zone: 4
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 200
Spread (cm): 90
Habit: stiffly upright
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: Aug–Oct
Seasonal interest: late summer bloom; yellow fall color; winter structure; columnar form
Foliage: blue green
Flower: tan
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: seed for birds
Deer/Rabbit resistance: yes
Habitat: back of borders; screening; prairie gardens; architectural accents
Features: stiffly upright columnar; yellow fall color; excellent winter structure; Roy Diblik selection; tall architectural; PPA 2014
Notes: PPA 2014; Roy Diblik selection; stiffly upright not rigid; yellow fall color; excellent winter structure; prairie native