Panicum virgatum ‘Heavy Metal’
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Heavy Metal Switch Grass
| Evergreen-Deciduous | Deciduous |
|---|---|
| Overall Mature Size | Small |
| Mature Height & Spread | 3-4' x 2-3' |
| Exposure | Full to Partial Sun |
| Water | Medium Water |
| Flower Color | Pink |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Special Features | Attracts Birds, Butterflies, Coastal Conditions, Fall Color, Low Water Use |
| Container Sizes | #1 |
| Natural Growth Habit | Clumping |
| Sunset Garden Zones | 1-11, 14-23 |
| Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone | 4A-10A |
| Plant Type | Grass-like, Shrub |
Fast-growing, clumping ornamental grass native to the American prairies. Growing to 3-4’ tall x 2-3′ wide, this variety features strongly-upright-growing, bluish-gray foliage accented with airy-looking, pink-tinged flower plumes that rise above the foliage in mid to late-summer. Flowers are followed by small, clustered seed heads that persist into winter providing food for various species of birds. Tolerates wind and a wide variety of soil conditions from moist to dry, though less irrigation will produce a smaller-growing plant. Adding further appeal to this low-maintenance variety is the lovely fall foliage color in shades of yellow and tan. Great for planting in mass in native or wild gardens and its fibrous root system is ideal for helping to control soil erosion. Thrives in a full to partial sun exposure.
USDA Zone: 4A-10A
