Switchgrass is a robust perennial grass that is prominent in tallgrass prairie. It is a warm season grass that forms clumps. It produces flowering panicles that are very airy and open and have a purple-green color. The seed heads take on a pretty golden hue in the fall. This grass holds up well to heavy snow, providing birds and small mammals with winter cover. Switchgrass readily self seeds, so caution is advised when using this plant in small areas.