What a beautiful ornamental grass this is! Panicum 'Hot Rod' is a compact, upright, clump-forming grass which produces blue-green foliage in spring, slowly maturing to deep rich burgundy in summer and into autumn. In late summer, attractive purple-red flower panicles are produced. These are held well above the leaves, and evolve into showy seed heads that provide excellent winter interest—and a haven for garden birds.

Panicum virgatum 'Hot Rod', which colours earlier in the season than most other grasses, reaches 90cm in height. It looks great as a specimen plant, but spectacular when planted en masse. It is ideal for a pot on a patio, balcony or terrace, and even suits being planted in a mixed container. It will be at its best in full sun, and in a well-drained, fertile soil. Also, if your winters are cold, Panicum virgatum 'Hot Rod' will be fine—it is hardy to -15ºC. Finally, it is both drought- and salt-tolerant, so it has to be one of the most accommodating plants we have ever sold!