Landscape Alternatives
These native plants are suitable substitutes for cogongrass in the landscape.
Red Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a smaller-stature grass, typically 2 to 4 feet. The foliage begins to turn a rich red from the tip down in late summer and fall. There are several cultivars available, including ‘Rotstrahlbusch,’ ‘Hanse Herms,’ ‘Shenandoah,’ ‘Squaw,’ and ‘Rehbraun.’
Sideoats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) is a short grass, 1 to 2 feet tall, with red flowers dangling from long stalks.
Plumegrasses (Saccharum spp.) – see separate entry.