Pennisetum macrourum 'Tail Feathers'
Densely tufted, spreading evergreen perennial grass about 1.5m tall, with narrow, mid-green leaves and tall, upright, panicles of pinkish-beige spikelets, to 30cm long, produced in late summer and early autumn
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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 | Pink Brown | Green | ||
| Autumn | Brown | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming, Tufted
- 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 where pennisetum is short-lived. See ornamental grasses cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wildlife gardens
- Cut flowers
- 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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