Switch Grass

Position: full sunSoil: moderately fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-averageFlowering period: August and SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyEasily mistaken for Japanese Blood grass (Imperata cylindrica Rubra), this grass starts off with green, strap-like leaves that turn red at the tips in June, and produces light, airy flower panicles in summer. In autumn, the foliage turns a spectacular deep burgundy. It likes full sun, and unlike Imperata, can cope with dry summers. Try it in small groups among taller grasses, or against tall perennials.Garden care: when it starts to look tatty, lift and divide between mid-spring and summer....more Price: £6.95 Source: Crocus •