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Hot Rod Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum 'Hot Rod'

Category: Grass • Switch Grass

Discover Hot Rod Switch Grass, a drought-tolerant plant with attractive foliage perfect for mass plantings.

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Mature Height: 3-4 feet
Mature Width: 2-3 feet
Bloom Color: Brown
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 5-9
Maintenance: Low
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Multi-season
Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Hot Rod Switch Grass is a compact ornamental grass known for its striking appearance and vibrant color. It features upright growth and adds texture to gardens, making it a great choice for borders or mass plantings. This grass is also tolerant of various soil conditions and provides excellent winter interest.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade with moderate moisture. Prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture. Adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

mass plantingaccent

Special Features

Attractive foliagedrought-tolerantand provides winter interest.

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Drought tolerant and adaptable to various soil types.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding texture and movement to landscapes. Works well in naturalized settings.

Maintenance Notes

Low

Complementary Plants

Plants That Pair Well in the Landscape

Selected using botanical relationships, growing conditions, color harmony, size, texture, season, and landscape use.

What Clients Say

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“I have had great experiences with Bold Outdoors. Josh designed our home's landscaping and has been a valued partner for the past 7 years as we have added to and maintained our home's landscaping.”

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★★★★★

“Bold Outdoors has provided the highest quality professional landscape design, installation and after installation services at my residence.”

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hot Rod Switch Grass a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design plan.

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