Perennial of the Month-- December 2001
Common name: Prairie Sky Switch Grass
Family: Poaceae, Grass
Height x width: 4-5' x 2'
Growth rate: moderate, faster than some species in the genus
Foliage: 2-3' long and ½" wide, flat, glaucous blue, in fact one of bluest in this genus
Flowers: fine textured panicle to 2' long in mid to late summer, bluish flowers fading tan
Hardiness: zones 4-9
Soil: well-drained, moist preferred but tolerates dry
Light: sun, more open and falls over in part shade
Pests and Problems: none serious
Landscape habit, uses: borders, low screen, tolerates wind and salt spray, wildlife cover grass, native areas; best in groups of at least 3; combines well with lower bluish grasses such as Blue Sedge, or with flowers such as bee balms, rudbeckia, New York asters, flowering kale or cabbage
Other interest: related to grain crop millet (miliaceum); native to North America; from Latin name for millet; relatively new cultivar and popular
Other culture: low maintenance
Propagation: spring division
Sources: Kurt Bluemel, Ambergate, Niche Gardens, Greer Gardens, and many other complete garden centers and perennial nurseries