Pennisetum × advena
Dense, clump-forming, deciduous perennial grass about 1m tall, with linear leaves variegated cream and green, heavily flushed burgundy-purple. Long arching reddish-purple flower spiklets are produced in summer, in feathery panicles to 30cm long
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 Cream Variegated Red | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Purple | Green Cream Variegated Red | ||
| Autumn | Green Cream Variegated Red | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter. Ideal for container cultivation and overwintered in a cold greenhouse or provide winter protection in colder areas. See Ornamental grasses cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in late spring or early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Bedding
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back dead foliage and old flowered stems in early spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.