Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides)

Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides produces 2–5 foot tall mounds of narrow green foliage and bottlebrush‑like silvery‑pink to purple flowers that mature to brown. Parent of many cultivars with notable flowers ranging from purple to gray/black. Self‑sows plentifully in warm climates; marginally hardy in Zone 5.

Key Features

• Graceful, arching foliage and showy bottlebrush flowers.
• Good cut or dried flower.
• Self‑sows in warm climates; can be aggressive.

Growing Conditions

Light, average, well‑drained soil in full sun. Cut back previous year’s foliage by early spring.

Care & Propagation

Divide in late spring or early autumn. Sow seed in early spring at 55–65°F. Problems: rust, eye spot, leaf spots.

Landscape Uses

Beds, borders, cut flower, ground covers, waterside; formal and meadow gardens.

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