Pennisetum alopecuroides
Chinese fountain grass
A grass forming a dense clump of narrow leaves to 60cm long, turning pale brown in winter, with tall stems bearing softly hairy, oblong, green to purple inflorescences in late summer and early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green Purple | Green | ||
| Winter | 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
- Evergreen
- 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
Correct
- Plant range
- SE Asia to Australia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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