Panicum virgatum
switch grass 'Heavy Metal'
Flower Colors
Description
A deciduous perennial grass about 1.2m in height, forming clumps of upright, metallic blue-grey leaves, turning yellow in autumn. Large panicles of tiny purple-green spikelets in early autumn
Mature Height
1m
Mature Spread
1m
Plant Characteristics
Foliage
Deciduous
Growth Habit
UprightRosette
Growth Speed
Moderate · 0.3 m/yr
Soil Texture
ChalkLoamSand
Soil pH
AcidAlkalineNeutral
Soil Moisture
Moist but well-drainedWell-drained
Hardiness (RHS)
H7
Hardiness (USDA)
Zones 4-9
Flowering Season
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Key Features
Drought resistantGenerally pest-freeCity and courtyard gardensCottage and informal gardenGravel gardenPatio and container plantsPrairie plantingWildlife gardensFlower borders and bedsCut flowers