Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – Ornamental Grass

Panicum virgatum 'Totem Pole' Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass is a narrow, upright ornamental grass valued for its tall, columnar form and fine-textured green foliage. This distinctive switchgrass creates a strong vertical accent in the landscape while remaining relatively narrow, making it an excellent choice for borders, foundation plantings, mass plantings, and modern garden designs. Also Known As (AKA): Totem Pole Switchgrass Prairie Winds 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass 'Totem Pole' Ornamental Grass Upright Switchgrass Panicum virgatum 'Totem Pole' Its tightly upright growth habit provides excellent structure and movement in the landscape. Airy flower panicles appear above the foliage during summer, adding seasonal interest while the plant maintains its distinctive vertical silhouette. 🌿 Tall, narrow and strongly upright growth habit 🌾 Fine-textured ornamental foliage ☀️ Performs best in full sun 🏡 Excellent for borders, beds, mass plantings and modern landscapes 🦋 Provides habitat and seasonal interest for pollinators 💧 Relatively drought tolerant once established ❄️ Hardy perennial grass with excellent winter interest Note: Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for the best growth and upright form. Water regularly during the establishment period, then reduce watering as the plant becomes established. Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Growing Zones: 4–9 Outdoors Mature Height: 4–5 ft. Sunlight: Full Sun Mature Width: 18–24 in. Botanical Name: Panicum virgatum 'Totem Pole' Growth Rate: Moderate Bloom Time: Summer to Fall Type: Ornamental Perennial Grass Foliage Color: Green Watering: Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Special Feature: Narrow Upright Form, Fine Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Winter Interest FAQ's What is Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass? Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' is an ornamental switchgrass selected for its tall, narrow, upright growth habit and attractive fine-textured foliage. What are the growing zones for 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass? Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass is generally hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. How much sunlight does Totem Pole Switchgrass need? It performs best in full sun, where it can develop its strongest upright form and healthiest foliage. How tall does Totem Pole Switchgrass get? It can reach approximately 4–5 feet tall at maturity while maintaining a relatively narrow profile. Is Totem Pole Switchgrass drought tolerant? Yes. Once established, this ornamental grass has good drought tolerance, although regular watering is beneficial during prolonged dry periods. When should Totem Pole Switchgrass be cut back? Cut the previous season's foliage back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Where can I plant Prairie Winds® 'Totem Pole' Switchgrass? It works well in borders, foundation plantings, mass plantings, garden beds, contemporary landscapes, and other areas that benefit from a strong vertical accent. Does Totem Pole Switchgrass provide winter interest? Yes. Its upright dried foliage and seed heads can provide attractive texture and structure in the landscape through winter.