Schizachyrium scoparium | The fuzzy white seeds of little bluestem feed birds during winter, and it stays standing, while faded, through the snow. Little bluestem is suitable as a ground cover or as a garden accent (transitioning from blue-green grass to winter seedheads). It’s also the host plant for several species of skipper butterflies.

Panicum virgatum | A key species in the tallgrass prairie, switchgrass can be used to create “pocket prairies,” form clumps of sod, or even re-seed meadows here in Connecticut. It provides nesting material for birds and is deer resistant.

Panicum virgatum | Switchgrass changes through the seasons from light green leaves, to green leaves with reddish green seed heads, to bright yellow leaves in the fall. It models the principle of gardening with nature: working with switchgrass’ natural features to accent color and texture in your garden!