Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky / Switch Grass

Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky is a stunning ornamental grass that features airy flower panicles that emerge a soft pinkish-tan color, then fade to a light tan as they mature. This cultivar is prized for its unique blue-gray foliage that turns a striking yellow-gold in the fall. Prairie Sky is a native grass to North America and is often used in prairie restoration projects.

Product Characteristics:
• Height: 120 cm (48 in)
• Spread: 90 cm (36 in)
• Flower color: Pinkish-tan, maturing to tan
• Flowering period: Late summer to early fall
• Foliage: Blue-gray, turning yellow-gold in the fall
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Well-draining, adaptable to various soil types
• Hardiness Zone: 4

Uses:
Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky is a versatile ornamental grass that can be used in a variety of ways. Its upright growth habit makes it an ideal candidate for a specimen plant, while its tall height and unique foliage make it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to borders, mixed beds, and prairie-style plantings. Additionally, Prairie Sky is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it an easy-care addition to any landscape.

Benefits:
Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky is a tough and hardy ornamental grass that requires minimal maintenance. It is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners who want a low-maintenance landscape. Additionally, this grass provides year-round interest with its unique blue-gray foliage and airy flower panicles.

Companion Plants:

• Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro' - The yellow flowers of this daylily provide a nice contrast to the blue-green foliage of Prairie Sky.
• Achillea millefolium 'Moonshine' - This yellow-flowered yarrow is a great complement to the blue-green foliage of Prairie Sky.
• Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - The yellow flowers of 'Goldsturm' provide a nice contrast to the blue foliage of Prairie Sky.

 

Care Instructions:
Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky is a low-maintenance grass that requires little care. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, but it can tolerate a range of soil types. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system, then reduce watering to once a week or as needed. Prairie Sky does not require fertilization but can benefit from an application of compost in the spring.

Final Thoughts:
Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky is a stunning and easy-to-grow ornamental grass that provides year-round interest in the landscape. Its unique blue-gray foliage and airy flower panicles make it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest and texture to borders, mixed beds, and prairie-style plantings. Additionally, Prairie Sky is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners who want a beautiful and hassle-free landscape.