Giant Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum Cloud Nine

• Position: full sun
• Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: August and September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Huge and stately, this fountainous grass is a magnificent sight in summer, when masses of tiny, golden spikelets form an airy cloud above arching, metallic-blue foliage. The flower spikes gradually turn to buff as they mature and can last well into winter, prolonging the season of interest in the garden. Definitely a statement plant, this grass needs room to express itself , and is best planted at the back of a perennial border, or in a large garden, en masse along a path.
  
  
• Garden care: Drought-tolerant once established, this grass will need a bit of help to get going. Cut down to the ground in late winter. Lift and divide congested colonies between mid spring and summer.