I grow it in the mountains and have no problems. I noticed it prefers moist soils and some afternoon shade according to some sites. It flowers very early in the season.
Perhaps it will not do well in times of drought.

Here is a link that might be useful: Calamagrostis Karl Foerster

I've seen it or something that looks just like it used in campus flower beds around NC State in Raleigh.

Thanks to you both. I haven't seen the ones at NC State but I'll keep my eyes open for them. Unfortunately, none of the upright switch grasses have the same look, or I'd use them instead. There's a Korean feather reed grass that is touted as better for heat, but it's not as pretty.