The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
ThePennisetumgenus includes a variety ofornamental grassesknown for their soft, fuzzy flower plumes.
Part of thePoaceaefamily, these plants are also commonly referred to as fountain grasses.
The individual species include both annual and perennial varieties, ranging in size from large to small.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
The smaller varieties can be kept in containers for a beautiful addition to a patio or entranceway.
Their lovely flowers are perfect for cut and dried flower arrangements.
Some of the well-known species ofPennisetuminclude feathertop grass (Pennisetum villosum) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum).
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Pennisetum Care
Once established, Pennisetum grasses do not require much maintenance.
They are great choices for hot, sunny, humid areas and do well in containers.
These plants enjoy moist, well-draining soils and are often drought-tolerant once established.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
These grasses are also very flammable and can quickly spread fires.
Light
These plants thrive infull sunshine.
They prefer at least six to eight hours of sunlight a day.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Soil
ThePennisetumgenus generally prefers rich, evenly moist soil that is slightly acidic.
Water
Regular watering will keep any variety of Pennisetum grass happy.
Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but never soggy.
Some varieties are drought tolerant and will not need as much watering.
They thrive in sunny, hot, humid regions.
However, these grasses can be grown as annuals in colder zones.
This will help encourage healthy, plentiful growth.
This will keep the area clean throughout winter and encourage new, healthy growth in the coming growing season.
Propagating Pennisetum
Propagating these grasses can easily be donethrough divisionin the spring.
Fill the pot with well-draining soil and keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
Choose a pot that provides several inches of growing room on all sides.
Slowly work around the pot until the plant can be slid out.
Plant the grass into a larger container and fill it in with rich, well-draining soil.
If kept in pots, it is best to move the pot indoors before cold temperatures arrive.
Landscape Plants Rated by Deer Resistance.New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.
Pennisetum setaceum Rubrum Purple Fountain Grass.University of Florida IFAS Extension Service.
Pennisetum setaceum (fountain grass).Invasive Species Compendium.
Fountain Grass, Pennisetum alopecuroides.University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.
