1 1
Grass · DeciduousSKU 161371

Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky 4.5 Litre

Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky 4.5 Litre

Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Sky'
An upright, clump-forming ornamental grass with powdery blue-green foliage that turns golden bronze in autumn
£22.00
£22.00
Sale Sold out
Including VAT.
Out of stock
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Maestro
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • PayPal
Spend more to unlock a bulk discount on your whole order
Free delivery over £400*
Nursery grown in Cheshire
Healthy-arrival guarantee
Expert planting advice
Switch Grass 'Prairie Sky'
Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Sky'
Pet Safe
Sunlight
Full sun
Hardiness
H5 (-15 to -10°C)
Mature size
1-1.5m tall × 0.5-1m wide
Foliage
Deciduous
Flowers
Blue, Green
Flowering
Autumn
Soil
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Aspect
North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Supplied as
Pot Grown
View full details

About Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky 4.5 Litre

Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’ – Upright Blue-Green Grass

Description
Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’, also known as Switch Grass, is a tall, clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its upright habit and powdery blue-green foliage. In late summer, airy, purple-tinged flower panicles rise above the leaves, adding movement, texture, and seasonal interest.

During autumn, the foliage turns golden bronze, creating a dramatic display. Its vertical, architectural form makes it suitable for borders, naturalistic gardens, and prairie-style plantings. This native North American grass is hardy, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance once established.

Size & Growth
Grows 1.2–1.5 m tall, with flower plumes extending up to 1.8 m, and spreads 0.8–1 m wide.

Growing Conditions
Thrives in full sun in well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soils, including clay and poor soils, and is drought-resistant once established.

Why Choose Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’?

  • Blue-Green Foliage – Powdery, upright leaves provide structure.

  • Seasonal Interest – Purple-tinged flower panicles in summer; golden bronze foliage in autumn.

  • Architectural Form – Upright habit adds height and texture to borders.

  • Low Maintenance – Hardy, drought-tolerant, and reliable.

Planting & Care Guide

Position: Full sun for best foliage colour and flower display.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates a range of soil types.
Watering: Water during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
Feeding: Light fertiliser in spring if soil is poor.
Pruning: Cut back foliage to 10–15 cm in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Design & Planting Ideas

  • Plant in drifts or groups for naturalistic or prairie-style planting.

  • Use as a structural element in mixed borders or near pathways.

  • Combine with perennials such as rudbeckias, echinaceas, or asters for seasonal interest.

  • Perfect for low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly gardens.

Plants well with

Our growers' picks to plant alongside Panicum virgatum Prairie Sky 4.5 Litre for a fuller, longer-lasting display.