Panicum virgatum ‘Long Island Ecotype’, commonly known as Long Island Ecotype Switch Grass, is a robust native ornamental grass selected from naturally occurring populations on Long Island for its adaptability, upright habit, and exceptional landscape performance. Its attractive blue-green foliage forms a dense, vertical clump that adds texture and movement throughout the growing season.
In late summer, airy flower panicles emerge above the foliage, maturing into golden seed heads that provide lasting beauty and winter interest. This low-maintenance native ornamental grass thrives in full sun and performs well in a variety of well-drained soils. Once established, Long Island Ecotype Switch Grass is drought tolerant, heat tolerant, and deer resistant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise landscapes, native plant gardens, meadow plantings, rain gardens, and erosion control. Its flowers attract beneficial pollinators, while the seed heads provide an important food source and habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Ideal for landscape borders, mass plantings, naturalized areas, foundation plantings, and habitat restoration projects, Panicum virgatum ‘Long Island Ecotype’ pairs beautifully with native wildflowers, flowering perennials, shrubs, and other ornamental grasses. Whether planted to support pollinators, enhance biodiversity, or create year-round landscape interest, this versatile switch grass delivers dependable beauty, ecological value, and outstanding performance in residential and commercial landscapes.