Overview
Panicum obtusum is a tufted grass like in the genus Panicum, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Panicum obtusum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, patio and container plants, prairie planting, wildlife gardens, cut flowers and flower borders and beds.
About
Panicum obtusum, commonly known as mosquito grass, is a tufted deciduous grass belonging to the genus Panicum. This grass thrives in full sun and well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, tolerating a range of soil pH from acid to alkaline. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and suits various garden settings including city courtyards, cottage gardens, gravel gardens, and prairie plantings. Panicum obtusum produces large, intricately branched panicles filled with small spikelets during late summer and autumn, providing seasonal interest from spring through autumn.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Panicum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Panicum obtusum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Panicum obtusum
- Propagation
- Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Panicum obtusum?
Panicum obtusum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Panicum obtusum need?
Panicum obtusum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Panicum obtusum hardy in the UK?
Panicum obtusum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Panicum obtusum?
Division in spring.
