Heavy Metal Switch Grass

Heavy Metal Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal') is a popular ornamental grass esteemed for its distinctive vertical growth and unique metallic-blue foliage. As a cultivar of the native North American Panicum virgatum, commonly known as switchgrass, 'Heavy Metal' lives up to its name with upright, columnar growth, reaching a height of about four to five feet. The steel-blue leaves provide a bold statement in the landscape, and they shimmer in the sunlight, resembling metal. In late summer to early fall, airy panicles of tiny flowers emerge above the foliage, adding further visual interest. The plumes age to an attractive wheat color, extending its ornamental value into the winter. This grass is versatile, thriving in a range of soil types and conditions, including clay and sandy soils. Its adaptability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to pests and diseases make it a popular choice for both garden enthusiasts and landscape designers, adding a touch of sophistication and modernity to various outdoor settings.