Panicum Heavy Metal

Switch Grass, Panic Grass

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Four Season Appeal
Strongly vertical metallic-blue foliage will age to yellow in the fall. Late summer seed fronds tipped in copper persist for stunning winter interest. Panicum Heavy Metal stems retain their upright form throughout the growing season and into winter. May self-seed under ideal growing conditions. Absolutely a must-have grass for all seasons! Panicum supplies an ideal wildlife habitat providing shelter and food for songbirds. Tolerates both wet and dry conditions. Switch Grass gets its name from the calming swishing sound produced with a gentle breeze. This tough ornamental grass is deer resistant, will grow near black walnut trees and even tolerates salt spray near the ocean and road salt.

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Code PAHM

Patent

Plant Type Perennials, Grasses

Species virgatum

Height Tall 3-4' (4-5' in flower)

Spacing Plant 30" apart

Bloom Time Mid-Summer to Late Summer

Sun / Shade Full Sun to Half Sun / Half Shade

Zones 4-9

Soil Type Normal, Clay

Water Needs Medium

Sold In Plantable Pots

Special Features

  • Deer Resistant
  • Winter Interest

Planting Sites

  • Good for Hedge
  • Seaside/Salt Tolerant
  • Wet Site Tolerant

Panicum General Information

Panicum are strongly vertical grasses with good color. Best form is achieved in full sun, more open habit if given too much shade. Airy clouds of flowers provide winter interest and food for birds. Ideal grass for stabilizing slopes prone to erosion. Ornamental Grasses are restricted from Idaho and Oregon. Idaho has restricted all potted plant material from being shipped into Idaho at this time.

Panicum Plant Care

Prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Cut back in early spring to 3-4" before new growth appears. Divide in spring only. Fast grower but late to wake up in the spring.