Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’ named 2014 Perennial Plant of the Year

Source: Perennial Plant Association and National Garden Bureau

Roy Diblik selected ‘Northwind’ from a population of Panicum virgatum he raised using wild-collected seed from plants growing along railroad tracks in South Elgin, Ill. In July 1983, he noticed that one plant had wider leaves and a very upright growth habit, unlike the typical arching form of the others. He gradually built up stock of the upright one. In 1992, when Northwind Perennial Farm opened, he introduced it and named it ‘Northwind’.
 
‘Northwind’ spreads slowly to form erect clumps of slender, steel-blue leaves about five feet tall. In late summer, the foliage is topped by a haze of showy, finely-textured flower panicles that rise to 6 or 7 feet, and that open golden yellow and mature to beige.
 
Deep roots make ‘Northwind’ remarkably drought-tolerant, once established. Like most ornamental grasses, Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’ is seldom eaten by deer.

Hardiness
USDA Zones 4 to 10
Light
Switchgrass performs best in full sun and will tolerate light shade.
Soil
Panicum is famously adaptable to almost any soil.
Uses
Switchgrass is a stalwart selection in the full-sun, especially in native, meadow or prairie gardens. Flower arrangers find the foliage and plumes useful for arrangements. Finally, this warm-season perennial grass offers golden fall color.

'Northwind' in winter. Photos courtesy of UMN

'Northwind' in summer.

Go here to view past selections that received the Perennial Plant of the Year nod.