Species elephant grass
burgundy-lime foliage

elephant grass

Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess'

Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess') is a grass species with deep purple foliage. Its foliage is uniquely feathery and grows into tall clump topped with plumes of feathery lavender flower heads in the autumn. It's extremely drought tolerant and requires regular pruning to keep it manageable. Its clusters of flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects to the garden. It also provides texture and lines in the landscape and takes little water to look stunning. This plant is a favorite among many gardeners due to its ease of care as well as its ornamental beauty.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Flowers In Autumn

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

red,purple

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Elephant grass should be watered once or twice a week for optimal growth. Water deeply so that it soaks into the soil, allowing the roots to reach out and absorb all the moisture. Avoid watering the leaves and foliage directly, as this can cause the plant to become stunted. Allow the top half-inch of the soil to dry out between waterings, and water until it runs out through the drainage holes of the pot. If the pot does not have drainage holes, only water lightly so that the soil does not become soggy and the plant can fully absorb the moisture.

sunlight

Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess') prefers full sun for 6-8 hours each day, preferably in the morning hours.This seasonal grass prefers more opportunities to bask in the sun when it can, so during the summer months it will benefit from up to 12 hours of direct sunlight. One way to help the plant remain healthy in the colder months is to move it to a sun-filled spot or near a light source indoors.

pruning

Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess') should be pruned every spring, just as the new growth begins emerging. Pruning should involve cutting back the older foliage to 2-thirds of its former height. Pruning should also be used to remove any dead or damaged growth. This is best done early in the spring, that way new growth and a full plant can be achieved during the growing season.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess' typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Pennisetum purpureum 'Princess' typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map