Panicum virgatum 'Hot Rod' ~ Hot Rod Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum 'Hot Rod' ~ Hot Rod Switch GrassHot Rod Switch Grass is a dense clumping native grass with stiff upright blue green foliage that transitions to red then deep burgundy by fall. In mid summer stems holding airy clusters of tiny purple flowers raise above the foliage like a cloud which turn brown in fall and persist through winter. Prefers part sun and moist well drained soils. Type: Orn. Grass Origins: Central and East N. America; GA Native Height: 3' 4' Spread: 2' 3' Spacing: 2' USDA

Hot Rod Switch Grass is a dense clumping native grass with stiff upright blue green foliage that transitions to red then deep burgundy by fall.   In mid-summer stems holding airy clusters of tiny purple flowers raise above the foliage like a cloud which turn brown in fall and persist through winter.  Prefers part sun and moist well-drained soils.  

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low maintenance plant. Too much shade will lose its upright form.  Beetles and mites are occasional problems.  Root and crown rot may occur in poorly drained soils. Some susceptibility to rust.

LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Naturalized Areas, Woodland Garden, Wildlife Gardens, Bog Gardens, Rock Gardens, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Salvia, Blanket Flower, Shasta Daisy

IMAGE: Photos by Plant Haven, Panicum ‘Hot Rod’