Pennisetum Fountain Grass
📷 Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0
grass

Pennisetum Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides

Pennisetum Fountain Grass is an ornamental grass known for its graceful, arching foliage and fluffy, bottlebrush-like flower spikes. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, adding texture and movement to garden landscapes.

USDA Zones
4–9
Height
2 ft–5 ft at maturity
Bloom Season
June – September
Bloom Color
pink, white
Pet Safe†🐕 Dog-Friendly🐈 Cat-Friendly
Garden🐝 Attracts Pollinators

"Dog-Friendly" / "Cat-Friendly" means this plant is not listed as toxic by common horticultural references. It is not a guarantee of safety for all animals in all circumstances. If your pet ingests any plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435.

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Sun Requirements

Full Sun
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily

Soil Type

well-drained, loamy

Care Requirements

Water Needsmedium
Maintenancelow
EvergreenNo

Complete Care Guide

### Care Guide for Pennisetum Fountain Grass Pennisetum Fountain Grass is a versatile and low-maintenance ornamental grass that thrives in USDA zones 4 through 9. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, loamy soil to flourish. This grass typically grows between 2 to 5 feet tall, producing attractive pink to white flower spikes from June through September. Watering should be moderate; overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize sparingly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the foliage to about 4 to 6 inches above the ground to maintain a tidy appearance and promote vigorous regrowth. Pennisetum Fountain Grass is not evergreen and will die back in colder climates but returns each year as a perennial. It is generally deer and rabbit resistant but may occasionally be damaged by deer. This grass attracts pollinators, adding ecological value to your garden. Avoid planting in poorly drained or heavy clay soils to prevent root issues. With proper care, this grass provides year-round interest and texture to garden beds, borders, and containers.

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