Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' is a striking upright switchgrass with steely blue foliage that forms a rigid vertical clump maintaining structure even in heavy rain or wind. Its metallic sheen and architectural form make it a commanding presence in sunny landscapes. In late summer it produces airy pink tinged flower panicles that rise above the foliage offering movement and softness while providing seasonal contrast through fall and winter.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, including clay and sandy conditions
Watering Needs: Low once established; tolerates drought and periodic flooding
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided by deer due to tough, fibrous foliage
Native Status
Panicum virgatum is native to North America and widely found in prairies, open fields, and roadsides. 'Heavy Metal' is a cultivated selection known for its stiffer more upright habit and intense blue foliage.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Produces seed heads that attract songbirds such as goldfinches, sparrows, and juncos through late fall and winter.
Butterflies
- Serves as a larval host plant for skipper species like the Delaware Skipper and provides cover for emerging butterflies.
Bees
- Though wind pollinated its structure and habitat value support ground nesting native bees and other beneficial pollinators.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow room for upright clump formation and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for rain gardens, naturalized meadows, and as vertical accent in mixed perennial beds or behind shorter perennials. Its strong texture and color anchor native plantings and low maintenance landscapes.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Cheerful yellow daisies and dark centers echo the seasonal timing and prairie heritage of switchgrass.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Bold pink flowers rise above sturdy stems and contrast beautifully with the blue upright foliage of 'Heavy Metal'.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Deep violet spikes weave rhythm through switchgrass clumps while attracting bees and butterflies.
- Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Fine arching yellow blooms provide motion and a vibrant foil for the grass’s cool tones.
- Amsonia hubrichtii - Threadleaf foliage turns brilliant gold in fall echoing the tones of maturing switchgrass plumes.