Species
Panicum virgatumSwitchgrass11 other cultivars
‘Shenandoah’Shenandoah Switchgrass
‘Northwind’'Northwind' Switchgrass
‘Niagara Falls’Switchgrass Niagara Falls
‘Apache Rose’Apache Rose Switchgrass
‘Rotstrahlbusch’Rotstrahlbusch Switchgrass
‘Heavy Metal’Heavy Metal Switchgrass
‘Squaw’Switchgrass Squaw
‘Cloud Nine’Cloud Nine Switchgrass
‘Hot Rod’Switchgrass Hot Rod
‘Prairie Sky’Switchgrass Prairie Sky
‘Totem Pole’Totem Pole Switchgrass
The Story
Plant Bio
Cheyenne Sky is a compact selection of switchgrass with a unique upright form and striking fall color.
Notable for its burgundy-red foliage that deepens in color throughout summer and fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
36 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Prune back dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
Pro Tip
Use a sunny site with well-drained soil for optimal growth and vibrant color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 💧
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems ❌
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds 🌱
- Divide clumps every few years for health
Don't
- Overwater, risking root rot ❌
- Plant in poorly drained soil 🌱
- Neglect pruning, leading to leggy growth ❌
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendment 🌱
- Apply fertilizer in late fall ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass questions
What zones can Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass grow in?
Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass deer resistant?
Yes — Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass bloom?
Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass need full sun?
Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Panicum to compare
Shenandoah Switchgrass
Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah'
'Northwind' Switchgrass
Panicum virgatum 'Northwind'
Switchgrass Niagara Falls
Panicum virgatum 'Niagara Falls'
Apache Rose Switchgrass
Panicum virgatum 'Apache Rose'
Dewey Blue Coastal Panicgrass
Panicum amarum 'Dewey Blue'
Rotstrahlbusch Switchgrass
Panicum virgatum 'Rotstrahlbusch'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Cheyenne Sky Switchgrass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.