Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal'

Native to North America, this perennial, deciduous grass creates a stunning architectural display from early summer through until winter when its dried stems and flowers stand pale gold against grey skies.

'Heavy Metal' is a particularly upright form and at 1 m in height slightly shorter than most, with narrow green leaves liberally tinged with dark steely grey. The seedheads appear in late summer as a diffuse cloud of reddish purple spikelets.

Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' is a very attractive grass suitable for mixed borders.

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy.
• Flowering Period: August.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Panicum virgatum 'Heavy Metal' grows to be a small to medium sized, clump forming grass.
  • Height: 100 cm (3 ft)
  • Spread: 60 cm (2 ft)