Switch grass was an important part of the tall grass prairie providing an important food source and winter shelter for a range of insects, small mammals and birds, even bison. Blue Fountain switch grass is a very tall upright grass of about seven feet in height and about six feet in width. Foliage is a bluish-green and the prominent seed heads, which appear in late summer, appear to burst out of the top of the plant like water gushing from a fountain. Like most switch grasses, Blue Fountain is extremely versatile and can cope with a range of soil types from sandy to clay and shade conditions although it prefers full sun.

Because of its versatility it can be used in a range of conditions such as rain gardens, stabilization of eroding banks, and black walnut. Since Blue Fountain is mostly grown for its ornamental value, it is generally retained for its autumn and winter interest although it also provides shelter for wildlife. Cut back the foliage to near ground level in late winter.