Panicum clandestinum (deer tongue grass)

General info: Panicum clandestinum, commonly called deer tongue grass, is a North American native perennial that thrives in moist well drained soil in shade to full sun. This species is typically found growing in moist woodlands, ditches, and along roadways. It preforms best in partial shade and moist soil. Deer tongue is a clump forming ornamental grass. It is tolerant of poor infertile soils and somewhat tolerant of drought. This species can get up to four feet tall and spreads through rhizomes to form colonies.

Landscape uses: Panicum clandestinum is a very versatile ornamental native grass. It creates clumps and spreads through rhizomes. Its root system is more like a mat. Making it the perfect species to reclaim or naturalize an area. Deer tongue has an almost bamboo like appearance and gets about four feet tall. Adding this species to a native garden or shade garden will add nice structure and will attract lots of butterflies and songbirds.