Product specifications and features

Product Description

Panicum Virgatum Prairie Sky

Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’ – A Striking Blue-Toned Ornamental GrassAdd height, texture, and movement to your garden with Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’, a stunning switchgrass variety prized for its steely blue foliage and airy, cloud-like seed heads. As the seasons change, its narrow, upright leaves transition to soft golden tones in autumn, offering year-round visual interest. This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant grass is perfect for borders, prairie-style plantings, containers, and wildlife-friendly gardens, where it provides structure, contrast, and habitat for birds.

Plant DescriptionFoliage: Striking blue-green, narrow leaves that turn golden in autumnFlowers: Delicate, airy seed heads that create a soft, cloud-like effect from summer to autumnPosition: Ideal for borders, prairie gardens, containers, and naturalistic plantingsFlowering Period: Late summer to early autumn (August to October)Height & Spread: 120-150cm tall, spread 50-80cm
How to GrowPlanting Time: SpringDepth & Spacing:✅ Plant 3-5cm (1-2 inches) deep, ensuring roots are well-covered✅ Space 50-80cm (20-32 inches) apart to allow for natural spreadingSoil Type: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil, but thrives in poor, dry, or sandy conditionsSunlight: Full sun for best colour and upright growth
Care Tips:✅ Water regularly during the first growing season; drought-tolerant once mature✅ Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh new growth✅ Dividing every 3-5 years helps maintain plant health and vigour✅ Leave seed heads through winter for seasonal interest and wildlife shelter
With its bold blue foliage, graceful movement, and easy-care nature, Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’ is a perfect choice for contemporary, wildlife-friendly, and naturalistic gardens. Whether planted in borders, large containers, or alongside perennials, this architectural ornamental grass guarantees a long-lasting and dynamic display throughout the seasons.

Bare root sent in 15 x 22cm capper

Specs & Details

Established height
120-150cm
Established spread
60-90cm
Plant spacing
3 bulbs per m²
Flower colour
Pink
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Clump-forming

Features

  • Perennial (Regrows)

  • Thrives Full Sun

  • Full Hardy

Plant Calendar

 

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Plant

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
From March To April

Harvest

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
From April To May

FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

Can I plant Panicum now in the UK?

Panicum is a warm-season ornamental grass, so late spring is the best time to plant, once the soil has warmed up and hard frosts have passed. It can be slow to start into growth, so do not worry if it is later than other grasses to emerge.

Where is the best place to grow Panicum grass?

Plant Panicum in full sun and well-drained soil for the strongest upright growth, best foliage colour and airy flower heads. Avoid permanently wet ground, particularly during winter.

How tall does Panicum grow and will it spread?

Size depends on the type, with many Panicum grasses reaching around 1 to 1.5m once established. It forms a neat clump rather than spreading by runners, although mature clumps can be divided in spring if they become too large.

Can I grow Panicum in a pot?

Yes, Panicum grows well in a large container with drainage holes. Use a soil-based compost, place it in full sun and water during dry spells. A heavy pot is best for taller types, as mature plants can catch the wind.

Should I cut Panicum back for winter?

Leave the faded stems and seed heads in place over winter for structure and interest. Cut the whole clump back close to the ground in late winter or early spring, before the fresh shoots begin to appear.

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