Is Switchgrass good for the Colorado Front Range?

Yes, Switchgrass is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.

How far apart do I plant Switchgrass?

Space Switchgrass about 25 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 36 in apart for a looser planting.

Is Switchgrass hardy on the Front Range?

Switchgrass is hardy in USDA 4 to 9. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.

How much water does Switchgrass need?

It needs low to medium water once established.

What color does Switchgrass turn in fall?

Switchgrass turns red and gold in autumn. Fall color intensity varies with the season and site on the Front Range.

How long does Switchgrass bloom?

Switchgrass blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.

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Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum

Compiled by Nicholas Julia · Reviewed against CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-10-30

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a Colorado-native perennial suited to the Colorado Front Range. It matures to about 36 to 72 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide, needs low to medium water, and prefers full sun. Warm-season prairie grass; airy pink flower clouds; bluish foliage turns red-gold in fall.

Colorado nativeOn the CSU listlow to medium water36 to 72 in tall and 24 to 36 in wideXeric / water-wise

Photos

Photo 1: Warren Gretz, DOE/NREL, Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Photo 2: Peter Chen 2.0, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY)

At a glance

Will it survive here?

Hardiness zones: USDA 4 to 9
Water needs: low to medium water
Sun: Best in full sun.
Soil: clay, loam, sandy
Soil pH: 6.5 to 8.0
Hail tolerance: high
Wind tolerance: high
Salt tolerance: moderate
Site uses: Slopes & erosion control

How big, what shape?

Mature size: 36 to 72 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide
Planting spacing: ~25 to 36 in apart

What it looks like, and when

Bloom time: late summer, early fall
Bloom color: pink
Bloom length: Long (several weeks)
Fall color: Red, gold
Foliage: Deciduous

Who else benefits

Pollinator value: high
Deer: Not rated
Colorado native: Yes
Native ecoregion: shortgrass prairie

Also worth knowing

Fire rating: Not rated

Planting & establishment

Deep-water first season to establish, then minimal water needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Switchgrass good for the Colorado Front Range?: Yes, Switchgrass is a well-suited perennial for Colorado's Front Range.
How big does Switchgrass get?: It matures to about 36 to 72 in tall and 24 to 36 in wide.
How far apart do I plant Switchgrass?: Space Switchgrass about 25 in apart for a faster, fuller bed, or up to 36 in apart for a looser planting.
Is Switchgrass hardy on the Front Range?: Switchgrass is hardy in USDA 4 to 9. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b to 6a, so it is well within range.
How much water does Switchgrass need?: It needs low to medium water once established.
What color does Switchgrass turn in fall?: Switchgrass turns red and gold in autumn. Fall color intensity varies with the season and site on the Front Range.
Is Switchgrass native to Colorado?: Yes. It is a Colorado native.
How long does Switchgrass bloom?: Switchgrass blooms for several weeks, a long-season performer on the Front Range. Bloom timing shifts a week or two with elevation and spring weather.