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Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Black Beauty'

Chinese fountain grass 'Black Beauty'

A clump-forming grass to around 1m tall with narrow, arching green leaves. From summer into autumn, tall stems bear dark purple to black flowers on bottlebrush-like heads

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Black Purple Green
Autumn Black Purple Green
Winter Brown
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical 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

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas. See ornamental grasses cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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