Panicum virgatum ‘Purple Tears’, commonly known as Purple Tears Switchgrass, is a compact, upright cultivar of this versatile native grass. This ornamental switchgrass is noted for its airy panicles of purple seed heads that rise above its slender, blue-green foliage in late summer. As the season progresses, the foliage takes on warm tones of yellow in the fall, while the purple seed heads persist through winter, providing food for birds.

Growing 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, Purple Tears is perfect for smaller spaces, garden borders, or mass plantings. As a native cultivar, it provides essential habitat and food for wildlife and supports pollinators while also helping with erosion control and soil health.

Why Choose Panicum virgatum ‘Purple Tears’?

• Compact size with upright, tidy growth

• Distinctive purple seed heads and golden fall foliage

• Native cultivar providing habitat, food, and erosion control benefits

Cultivating Tips

• Thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of soils

• Drought-tolerant once established and low-maintenance

• Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth appears

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Use in borders, foundation plantings, and native meadows

• Ideal for erosion control and rain gardens

• Combine with flowering native perennials for a pollinator-friendly landscape

Ecological Benefits

• Produces seeds that feed birds through fall and winter

• Provides cover and shelter for small wildlife and insects

• Helps prevent erosion and improves soil health

• Supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience