Species fountain grass
elongated, feathery, purple-gray-white flowers or cobs, with long, slender, purple-gray stems

fountain grass

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'

Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum') is an ornamental grass with dense purple foliage, giving it its namesake color. Its beauty is further complemented with an abundance of creamy white fluffs in the summer and autumn, which disperse a pleasant aroma. It grows in clusters and can reach 4 feet in height, performing well in both containers and flower beds. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, and is somewhat drought tolerant. Its striking colors make an eye-catching addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 10

Flowers:

Burgundy red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple,burgundy

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Fountain grass prefers regular watering, with an average of 1 inch of water per week. Keep the soil moist at all times, but avoid over-watering. The grass should be watered deep and infrequently, allowing the top 6 inches of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the hot summer months, water the grass every 3-4 days, and during the cooler winter months, reduce watering to 1-2 times a week. Always check the soil moisture before watering.

sunlight

Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum') thrives in full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. When grown in the shade, it tends to be leggy and less vibrant in color. It can survive in partly shady conditions, however, this could reduce flower size and vigor of the plant. For optimal growth, provide fountain grass with at least 8 hours of direct sun per day; more sunlight is beneficial.

pruning

Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum') should be pruned once a year in late winter or early spring while it is still dormant. Aim to prune no more than ⅓ of the plant's foliage back to the base, removing only a few of the oldest stems to allow new growth to come through. Be sure to use scissors or shears to cut the grass at the base, instead of pulling it out. This will help ensure an even, neat look of the grass. Pruning at this time of year will also promote new leaf growth in early spring, as well as greater fullness in late summer.

Season

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

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Starts Flowering

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Hardiness Map