Grass, Panicum Amarum 'Dewey Blue'

Dewey Blue Switch Grass Or Beach Grass

Panicum amarum ‘Dewey Blue’ is a warm-season ornamental grass valued for its striking blue-gray foliage and upright, coastal-adapted habit. Narrow, stiff leaves emerge silvery-blue in spring, hold their color through summer, and develop tan tones in fall, followed by airy, open flower panicles in late summer that add a soft, hazy effect and persist into winter. Its durability and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for challenging sites.

Type: Perennial ornamental grass

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 4–6 ft (to 6–7 ft in flower)
(10-year size: forms expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Upright, somewhat stiff, clump-forming
Light: Full sun (best color and form)
Soil: Well-drained soils; tolerant of sandy, poor soils
Water: Low; very drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides cover for birds; supports native insects


Features & Landscape Uses


Blue-gray foliage for cool-season contrast



Strong, upright form for structure



Excellent drought and coastal tolerance



Ideal for naturalistic, prairie, or low-maintenance plantings




Care
Very low-maintenance. Cut back in late winter before new growth begins. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Highly tolerant of drought, poor soils, and harsh conditions. Divide every few years if needed.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

4-6'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Flower color

Cornsilk

Leaf color

Steel Blue

Soil

Sandy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Mass Planting

Shape

Arching, Clumping, Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

Yes