Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Red Head'
Chinese fountain grass 'Red Head'
A clump-forming grass with narrow, green leaves to 60cm, turning gold in autumn and buff in winter. Smoky, dark red, bottlebrush flowers are produced in mid to late summer, turning brown in autumn and often lasting through winter
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Grey Silver | Green | ||
| Autumn | Brown | Yellow | ||
| Winter | Brown | Brown |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Pennisetum can be annual or perennial, evergreen or deciduous grasses, clump-forming or spreading in habit, with linear leaves and narrow flowering panicles with conspicuous bristles
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. May need winter protection in colder areas. See ornamental grasses cultivation
Propagation
Propagate division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Gravel garden
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Prairie planting
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in early spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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