Panicum virgatum 'Heiliger Hain'

42.15096664, -87.79080963

42.15136719, -87.79225159

42.15170288, -87.79037476

42.15195465, -87.79035187

Switch Grass

Switch grass was an important part of the tall grass prairie
providing an important food source and winter shelter for a range of
insects, small mammals and birds, even bison.

Heiliger Hain switch grass is an upright grass of about four feet in height and about three feet in width. Spring foliage is a bluish-green which turns dark maroon by summer and persists throughout the winter months if the plant is not cut back.

Like most switch grasses, Heiliger Hain is extremely versatile and can cope with a range of soil types from sandy to clay and shade conditions although it prefers full sun. Because of its versatility it can be used in a range of conditions such as rain gardens, stabilization of eroding banks, and black walnut. Since Heiliger Hain is mostly grown for its ornamental value, it is generally retained for its autumn and winter interest. Cut back the foliage to near ground level in late winter.

Soil:
Moist
Plant Shape:
Upright
Exposure:
Full Sun
Partial Shade
Bloom Time:
July - August
September - October
Bloom Color:
Pink
Lavender
Landscape Use:
Screen/Hedge
Bedding or Border
Specimen Plant
Wildlife Interest:
Attracts Birds
Resistant To Deer
Plant Type:
Perennial
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 9