Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Panicum virgatum, commonly known as switchgrass, is a perennial, deciduous grass native to the prairies of North America. In gardens, it's particularly valued for the upright foliage, masses of hazy flowers in early autumn followed by gorgeous autumn colour.
Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' is an attractive cultivar with glaucous, blue-green foliage topped with pink-green flowers in early autumn. It looks fabulous planted in bold clumps that can sway in the breeze. Later in autumn, the foliage turns a lovely golden-yellow colour.
For best results, grow Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' in full sun in well-drained soil. Leave the seedheads and foliage alone until February to provide winter interest, then cut right back to make way for new growth.
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Panicum ‘Heavy metal’ and wildlife
Panicum ‘Heavy metal’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
Is Panicum ‘Heavy metal’ poisonous?
Panicum ‘Heavy metal’ has no toxic effects reported.
