Panicum northwind vs heavy metal
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Try combining it with cardoon (Cynaria cardunculus) for a color echo and great contrast in texture and form in a mixed border. 'Heavy Metal' typically blooms in late summer, producing airy inflorescences, while 'Northwind' flowers a bit earlier. The panicles consist of many small spikelets displayed on wiry stems.
Spikelets ripen into purple tinged seed.
The inconspicuous flowers with burgundy anthers and stigmas dangle from the well-branched panicles. I often see them hopping around the stems in winter. Both seed and foliage transform to a coppery brown in winter.
This cultivar attains a 4-6’ height and 2-3’ spread.
CULTURAL & MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Panicum virgatum ‘Northwind’ prospers in sunny sites with average to moist soil.
The plants need warm soil to grow, so very early spring and fall planting is not recommended. It typically reaches heights of 3 to 4 feet, making it a fantastic choice for adding structure to garden beds.
'Northwind'
'Northwind' stands out with its narrow, arching leaves that create a graceful silhouette.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote lush growth.
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of these grasses. This makes it a versatile choice for various landscape designs, providing a solid backdrop without overwhelming other plants.
When looking at specific cultivars, 'Northwind' stands out with its upright growth habit, reaching heights of up to 5 feet.
What sets it apart is its steely blue foliage, which stands upright all season. In the 25 years that this award has been given, ‘Northwind’ is only the third grass to earn this honor.
The Chicago Botanic Garden conducted an ornamental grass trial that evaluated 17 switch grass cultivars. Choose a pot at least 16 inches deep.
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Explore the stunning diversity of Panicum 'Heavy Metal' varieties 🌾 and let Greg provide personalized care tips to ensure your garden thrives beautifully!
Hi, I’m Ferb Vu, and I want to share my experiences with Panicum Heavy Metal Grass, or more formally, Panicum Virgatum ‘Heavy Metal’.
It can also be used as a seasonal screen or near water or bog gardens. Once roots establish, it’s drought-tolerant.
I sometimes divide mine every 3 to 5 years to keep it vigorous, but that’s optional.
Is Heavy Metal Grass Deer Resistant?
Yes, deer leave it alone in my garden. It grows up to 3 to 4 feet tall (not counting the flowers), and the fluffy pinkish seed heads can push it even higher by late summer.
What I love most?
Regular watering during dry spells will keep it healthy.
In contrast, 'Northwind' demands a bit more attention. The seed heads stay upright and provide winter interest, even when covered in frost or snow.
In summer, the fine-textured plumes attract beneficial insects. Birds love the seeds, especially finches and sparrows.
As the seasons shift, the transformation in color becomes even more pronounced, particularly in the fall when the grasses take on rich, warm tones that enhance garden design.
Spring and summer: Foliage color and vibrancy
During the warmer months, the blue-green leaves of 'Heavy Metal' varieties are at their peak, providing a refreshing contrast against other plants.
This grass is an appealing Accent or Grouping for Perennial Borders or urban Meadows. This size difference can significantly influence design choices, as 'Shenandoah' can fill spaces effectively while maintaining a more compact profile.
How size affects landscape design choices 🌳
When planning your garden, consider how the height of these cultivars can create focal points.
They do best when divided every three years.
Propagating Switchgrass
The species can be grown from seed, but cultivars must be propagated by division, preferably in spring just as the plants begin growing or until they reach about a foot high.