Panicum virgatum 'Purple Tears'
switch grass
This upright, compact, clump-forming grass features soft-grey to mid-green foliage. It produces airy, open panicles of purplish-red flowers held on wiry stems from late summer to autumn, making it perfect for mid-layer definition, structure, and interest.
Panicum virgatum 'Purple Tears' combines well with Verbena bonariensis, which has a similar flowering height, and the slightly taller, feathery plumes of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'.
Panicum virgatum 'Purple Tears' combines well with Verbena bonariensis, which has a similar flowering height, and the slightly taller, feathery plumes of Calamagrostis × acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'.
How to care for Panicum virgatum Purple Tears:
Grow in full sun and well-drained soil. Water moderately until established, then only during dry periods. Avoid rich soil or fertiliser to minimise flopping. No staking required. Cut back after flowering or leave over winter for wildlife interest. Remove spent stems in spring to encourage new growth.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.2m
Eventual spread:
1.2m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
