Fountain grass typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.
fountain grass
Pennisetum messiacum 'Red Bunny Tails'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
7 - 9
Flowers:
Reddish-pink Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
red,burgundy
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Fountain grass needs about 1 inch of water per week. It is best to water during the morning and this should be done every 4 to 5 days. During hot summer days and when the plant is actively growing, it should be watered more frequently. Make sure to avoid over-watering as this could cause root rot. Soil should be damp, but not overly saturated. In the winter months, this species should be watered much less and can even tolerate mild drought conditions.
sunlight
Fountain grass (Pennisetum messiacum 'Red Bunny Tails') requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. While it can tolerate partial shade, it won't produce the most vibrant colors without plenty of light.This shade-tolerant ornamental grass prefers full sun in the morning and afternoon, but not direct, overhead sun during the heat of the day. To protect the foliage from burning, place the fountain grass in a location that receives direct sunlight for just a few hours. The optimum time for fountain grass is full morning sun and shady afternoons.
pruning
Fountain grass (Pennisetum messiacum 'Red Bunny Tails') should be pruned lightly and regularly, starting in early spring. Pruning should be done by removing dead or damaged blades of grass, as well as any shoot tips that have gone dormant. This will allow room for new growth and promote healthy growth. Pruning should also help shape the plant, giving it a fuller and more compact appearance. It is important to not prune too much, as this could damage the plant. If you must prune heavily, try to do so over a few years instead of all at once. Remember to clean and sharpen pruning tools before use to reduce the risk of disease and damage to the grass.
Season
Fountain grass typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.