Heavy Metal Blue Switch Grass
Panicum virgatum (PAN-ih-kum ver-GAY-tum HEH-vee MEH-tal)
Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' is a deciduous perennial, ornamental grass cultivar, which is known for its compact, upright, columnar, clumping habit and stiff, metallic blue-green foliage. The foliage transitions to amber yellow in the fall and then to tan during the winter months. Its flowers are panicles of airy, pink-tinged blooms with dark burgundy seed heads. The seed heads are a food source for birds and small mammals over the winter, and the foliage provides shelter. The plant grows 4 to 5 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide. This plant is one of the oldest switchgrass cultivars, and was introduced in the 1980s by Kurt Bluemel in Maryland. Prefers full sun, and it will tolerate partial shade, but heavily shaded sites may cause the plant to topple over. Grows well in moist, sandy, or clay soil, and it is tolerant of both wet and dry soils. In late winter to early spring, prune this grass to the ground. Winter hardy in zones 4 to 9. This plant is easy to grow, requires very little maintenance, and is deer-resistant. Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' may be used as an accent plant or planted in mass in borders, meadows, or naturalized areas. Since it is wet soil-tolerant, it may also be used in rain gardens, bog gardens, and near ponds. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect pests or diseases. Monitor for Japanese beetles, spider mites, and thrips. Crown rot and root rot can occur. May be susceptible to rust in hot and humid conditions. More information on Panicum virgatum .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 50 attributes.
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