Panicum virgatum 'Huron Solstice' PP21498
Common Name: Switch Grass, Ornamental Grass
Similar to the popular Panicum 'Prairie Fire' PP19367, this new selection has blue-green foliage that turns a deeper shade of wine-purple beginning in early summer. This grass is strictly upright from top to bottom, unlike 'Prairie Fire' whose leaves curl at the top. In late summer here in Michigan, deep purple panicles are produced.
Panicum 'Huron Solstice' PP21498 was discovered and introduced by Martin Quinn.
Switch grass gets its name from the peaceful swishing sound it makes when blowing in the wind. All parts of this grass are very sturdy, and will remain standing thru winter unless snows are heavy. This provides important cover for birds during the coldest days of winter. This grass is very versitile from a design standpoint; it is effective as a specimen, in masses, for screening, alongside ponds or streams, or even in large containers.
