Switch Grass

About this plant

Known for its captivating seasonal display, 'Purple Tears' Switch Grass emerges with blue-green foliage in spring, gradually deepening to rich autumnal hues of bronze and red. The real showstopper, however, are the airy, purple-tinted seed heads that appear in late summer and persist through winter, creating a dramatic visual effect. This robust and adaptable native grass offers exceptional architectural interest to any landscape. Ideal for mass plantings, borders, or as a striking stand-alone specimen, it provides movement and texture, enhancing garden aesthetics throughout the year. Its durable nature makes it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. 'Purple Tears' also provides valuable habitat and food for local wildlife, contributing to a healthy ecosystem while adding beauty to your outdoor space. Enjoy its rustling sounds in the breeze and its enduring appeal.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily maintained, Panicum virgatum 'Purple Tears' thrives with minimal fuss. Cut back foliage to about 6 inches from the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. No serious pest or disease issues. Divide clumps every few years if they become too dense or lose vigor.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.