You can use Panicum virgatum 'Purple Tears' to add vertical structure, movement, and late-season interest to sunny beds, meadows, and naturalistic plantings.

It forms an upright, clumping mound of medium green foliage that stays tidy through summer. In late summer, airy flower panicles rise above the leaves, followed by distinctive purple-toned seedheads that carry into fall and often linger into winter for extra texture.

Plan for a mature size of about 36-48" tall, with a spread around 18-24". For the strongest stems and best form, give it full sun, though part shade is acceptable (plants can open up and lean more as shade increases). It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

This switchgrass tolerates a wide range of soils, from average to moist, and can handle clay as well as periods of wet soil once established. It also shows good tolerance of drier conditions. Use it as a specimen accent, in drifts for a soft screen, or mixed with flowering perennials for contrast and a natural, prairie-style look.

Leave the seedheads standing through winter to feed birds and add seasonal interest. In late winter to early spring, cut the clump back to the ground before new growth begins.

Specifications

• Cold hardiness zone: 5-9 (-20 degrees F) - Contact your local extension to confirm hardiness if you are in a fringe zone (we cannot guarantee hardiness in fringe zones)
• Light: Full sun   Part sun
• Mature height: 36-48"
• Spread: 18-24"
• Tolerant of: Drought
• Attracts: Birds
• Grows Under Trees: Conifer - No, Walnut - Yes, Other - No
• Edible: Yes
• Native to the U.S.: Yes

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