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Photo by JLBG taken at Juniper Level Botanic Gdn, NC
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Photo by Walters Gardens taken at Walters Gardens, MI
Panicum virgatum 'Blue Fountain' PP 28,192
Blue Fountain Switch Grass
Item #: 12961
Zones: 4a to 8b, at least
Dormancy: Winter
Height: 84" tall
Origin: United States
Panicum virgatum 'Blue Fountain' has been a standout in the trials of the new generation of improved switch grass selections. Panicum 'Blue Fountain' is a 2015 Walters Gardens introduction that forms a structurally rigid, 7' tall specimen of powder-blue foliage. Starting in midsummer, the top of the clump becomes a dense mass of tan plumes. We are so thankful that plant breeders are now paying attention to the need for tall, but narrow plants.
Maintenance:
Panicum virgatum 'Blue Fountain' is a low maintenance perennial when grown in full, bright sun. The only maintenance needed in the garden is to cut the old foliage to the ground in late winter/early spring, just before the new foliage begins to emerge. The tan color and structure of most Panicum virgatum clones remains quite good through the winter as a great design element.
Growing Conditions:
Panicum virgatum cultivars grow well in a wide range of conditions from moist soils to very dry soils. Northwind switchgrass also grows in both acidic and alkaline soils. The other for being successful with switchgrass is full bright sun for more than 4 hours a day.
If your Panicum 'Blue Fountain' clumps get too large, they can be divided, which is best done in fall and winter after they have been cutback.
Natural Impact:
Panicum virgatum is frequented by butterflies and birds, and is the larval host of several skppers (butterfly relatives).
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Other Attributes
Genus: Panicum
Flower Color: Brown/Tan
Leaf Color: Blue
Container Role: Thrillers
Garden Themes: Cottage Garden Plants
Other: Butterfly Attracting Plants , Cut Flower Plants , Deer Resistant Plants , Drought Tolerant Plants , Florida Native Plants , Georgia native plants , Pollinator Plants , North American Native Plants , North Carolina Native Plants , Ornamental Seed or Fruit , Rain Garden Plants , Salt Tolerant Seaside Plants , Texas Native Plants , Colored Foliage , United States Native Plants