Heavy Metal Switch Grass
Panicum virgatum
PAN-ih-kum ver-GAY-tum
Perennials: Ornamental grass
Switch Grass
Zone
4: -30° to -20°
Min. Temp
Frost Tolerant: 24°
Leaves are glaucous-blue with a very upright, compact habit. Its upright nature creates a formal appearance, softened only by its delicate seed heads that turn dark burgundy in fall. Well suited for border plantings.
Appearance
Summer Foliage
Blue-Green
Fall Foliage
Green
Blooming Time
Late Summer - Fall
Habit
Upright
Height
4–6 ft
Spread
2–3 ft
Form
Panicle
Characteristics
Type
Cultivar
Safety
Non-toxic
Growth Rate
Moderate
Tolerance/Resistance
Drought Tolerant, Cold Hardy
Attracts
Doesn't Attract Beneficials
Uses/Placement
Massed
Optimal Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun - Part Shade
Soil Texture
Adaptable
Soil Drainage
Adaptable
Soil Moisture
Dry to Average
Soil PH
Neutral: 6.5-7.0
PH Tolerance
Prefers slightly acidic soil
Soil Amendment(s)
Compost
Fertilizer
Minimal Fertilizer Needed
Fertilizer Formula
Balanced Fertilizer
Fertilizer Timing
Pre-Bloom
Micronutrients
Trace Minerals Beneficial
Care
Care Level
Very Low
Behavior and Propagation
Spreading
Moderate Spreader
Propagation Method
Wind Pollinated
Propagation Licensing
Plant Patent (PP)
Division Timing
Spring Division