Native of the high grass prairies of the midwest this form of Switch Grass delights with soft blue foliage and foamy inflorescences and a staunchly upright habit. Blooms appear in early August and remain effective through winter. In autumn the whole plant is awash in tones of raspberry and red before going cere for winter. Surprisingly even in dry dormancy snow or ice and knock this grass over and when the thaw comes- pouf! It stands straight back up. Winter deciduous- but the clump does remain in place for the majority of winter. Cut back hard- to the ground in spring just before new growth appears. Full sun and rich, to average, well drained soil with consistent light summer water. Drought adapted when established- to an extent. Looks better with water. To 5′ tall and in bloom and forming an expanding clump to 2′ wide. Ultra hardy grass that can be planted en mass or alone as a vertical blue focal point.
Panicum virgatum ‘Heavy Metal’
Family: Poaceae Genus: Panicum
Plant type: Grass or Grass-like, Herbaceous perennial
Biomes/Growing conditions: Hot Aspects, Low Water/No Water, Oregon Coast
Sun exposure: Full Sun
USDA Hardiness zone: Zn4a -25º to -30ºF
Foliage color: Blue
Foliage season: Winter Deciduous