Description
Common name: Red Switch Grass
This blue Panicum bucks the horticulture trend of shrinking plants by towering around 7’ tall. Even with its considerable height, this grass stays very upright, supporting its late summer heavy flowering performance. Greenish tan flower panicles are held on the top two thirds of the plant and look like they burst out of the clump like water in a fountain. Its attractive blue-green leaves are very wide and strappy. This durable grass will tolerate drought, heat, and wind once established.
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 versatile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
Ornamental Grasses add graceful texture and movement to the garden. These varieties thrive in full sun growing conditions and are proven deer resistant.
Grass plants are often small in size on arrival, they are often just waking up from dormancy and will grow quickly through the summer. Provided regular watering and fertilizer to help establish the young plants.
Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens Inc.
Size: 2.0″ Starter plant
Height: 84″
Spread: 60.0″-72.0″ Tight clump forming
Light requirement: Full sun
Hardy Zone: 4,5,6,7,8,9
Attributes: Deer resistant, wind tolerant, fall interest, low water requirements once established
Soil requirements: Tolerant of acidic soil