Heavy Metal Switchgrass
Heavy Metal switchgrass is a medium-sized, upright ornamental grass. Bred from the native species, it was selected for its metallic-blue leaves.
It grows best during the hot summer months. In early fall, light and airy pink seedheads develop before the leaves turn yellow, adding height to the clump. Seeds persist into winter, creating interest and attracting birds.
Heavy Metal Switchgrass
Heavy Metal switchgrass is a medium-sized, upright ornamental grass. Bred from the native species, it was selected for its metallic-blue leaves.
It grows best during the hot summer months. In early fall, light and airy pink seedheads develop before the leaves turn yellow, adding height to the clump. Seeds persist into winter, creating interest and attracting birds.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal'
Pronunciation
PAN-ih-kum vir-GA-tum
Mature Height
3 to 5 ft.
Mature Spread
18 to 24 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
shiny pink
Bloom time
fall
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
species is native to most of the United States
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 7,000 ft.
Performance
Heavy metal switchgrass is a good choice for landscapes in the Colorado Springs area. As a warm season grass, it starts growing in late spring once the temperature warms up. It is strongly upright, never flopping after thunderstorms.
Maintenance
Cut old stems and leaves down in spring before new growth appears.