Panicum v. ‘Cheyenne Sky’ PP23209 (4) 1-gallons

Description

Product Description

Panicumvirgatum’Cheyenne Sky’ PP23209 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Red Switch Grass

this hardy Red Switch Grass is a perennial substitute for Pennisetum ‘Rubrum’. Measuring in at just 3′ (2′ before blooming), ‘Cheyenne Sky’ forms a tight, vase-shaped clump of blue-green foliage that begins turning wine red in early summer.

By late summer, nearly the entire clump is drenched in color and is topped by matching wine-red flower panicles held just above the foliage. It makes a dynamite specimen plant and is even more eye-catching when planted en masse.

Height: 3.0 FeetSpread: 1.5 FeetHardiness Zones: 4,5,6,7,8,9Flower Color: Purple-red shadesFoliage Color: Purple shadesFull Sun Low to Consistent Water NeedsPoor to Fertile Soil QualityBloomtime: Late SummerDeer ResistantSeasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads, Fall ColorGrowth Rate: Medium

Panicum virgatum ‘Cheyenne Sky’ is a stunning variety of switchgrass that’s prized for its early-developing red foliage and upright habit. It’s a fantastic choice for adding vertical interest, texture, and vibrant color to sunny gardens. Here’s a closer look at what makes this cultivar special:

Key Features:

• Early Red Foliage: Unlike many other switchgrasses that develop red tones later in the season, ‘Cheyenne Sky’ starts showing its vibrant wine-red coloration in early summer. The blue-green leaves quickly become infused with streaks of red, creating a dramatic and eye-catching display.
• Upright Habit: This cultivar maintains a strong, upright habit, typically growing 3 feet tall and 1.5-2 feet wide. Its vertical form makes it a great choice for adding structure to borders and landscapes.
• Airy Flower Panicles: In late summer, airy, reddish-purple flower panicles rise above the foliage, adding another layer of texture and interest. These panicles persist into fall and winter, providing visual appeal even after the growing season ends.
• Adaptable and Hardy: ‘Cheyenne Sky’ thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, including dry and moist soils. It’s also hardy in USDA zones 5-9, making it suitable for various climates.
• Low Maintenance: This switchgrass is relatively low-maintenance and doesn’t require deadheading or frequent watering once established.
• Wildlife-Friendly: The seedheads provide food for birds in the fall and winter, and the dense foliage offers shelter for small creatures.

Growing Tips:

• Sunlight: Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours per day) for the best foliage color and flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but the red coloration may be less intense.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but tolerates a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
• Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it’s fairly drought-tolerant.
• Hardiness: ‘Cheyenne Sky’ is hardy in USDA zones 5-9, tolerating cold winters and hot summers.
• Maintenance: Cut back the foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This will tidy up the plant and encourage fresh growth.

Design Ideas:

• Vertical Accent: Use ‘Cheyenne Sky’ as a vertical accent in borders, foundation plantings, or as a specimen plant in a smaller garden.
• Containers: Its upright habit and manageable size make it suitable for container gardening, adding height and drama to patios and decks.
• Meadow Gardens: Combine with other native wildflowers and grasses for a naturalized look.
• Mass Plantings: Create a dramatic effect by planting ‘Cheyenne Sky’ en masse, forming a sea of colorful foliage and plumes.
• Erosion Control: Its dense root system makes it a good choice for stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion.

Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Dried Flower, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Attractive Foliage, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant, Focal Point

(4) 1-gallon containers ready to plant, plants may be trimmed for shipping,

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