Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' (20)ct Flat Common Name: Grass-Ornamental, Blue Switch Grass
Zone 4 to 9, Full sun
Plants reach 5 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide.
Perhaps the most upright variety of Panicum, the strong stems of 'Heavy Metal' never flop or lean, even in heavy rains. Its metallic blue leaves turn bright yellow in the fall. Beginning in late summer or early fall, delicate pink panicles dance 12 to 16 inches above the foliage.
Panicum is native grass that is very easy to grow and is a good grass for beginners. It will grow in any soil, from sand to clay, is drought tolerant once established, and even withstands periodic flooding. Grow this grass in full sun. It will tolerate light shade, but will flop over if the shade is too heavy. Panicum is wind and salt tolerant, making it a good choice for seaside gardens or along roads that are salted in winter.
Switch grass gets its name from the peaceful swishing sound it makes when blowing in the wind. All parts of this grass are very sturdy, and will remain standing thru winter unless snows are heavy. This provides important cover for birds during the coldest days of winter. This grass is very versitile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
Attributes: Border plants, Container, Cut flower or foliage, Drought tolerant, Mass planting, Rock gardens, Salt tolerant, Specimen or focal point plant, Deer resistant. for shipment to CA |