Purple Fountain Grass: Annual in Atlanta, Perennial in South Florida

Purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’) is a tender perennial that cannot survive Atlanta winters outdoors. It’s considered mildly invasive where it overwinters (Zone 9+), so its annual nature here is actually a benefit.

Overwintering Attempts

Indoor overwintering rarely succeeds. The plant is inexpensive—simply buy a new one each spring for reliable, vigorous growth.

Alternative

For a perennial grass with similar texture, consider native switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), which provide year-round interest and winter hardiness.