Overview
Cenchrus setaceus is a bushy grass in the genus Cenchrus, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cenchrus setaceus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds.
About
Cenchrus setaceus, commonly known as crimson fountaingrass, is a C4 perennial bunch grass that is native to open, scrubby habitats in East Africa, tropical Africa, the Middle East and south-western Asia. It has been introduced to many parts of the world as an ornamental plant, and has become an invasive species in some of them.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cenchrus setaceus
About the genus
Cenchrus is a widespread genus of plants in the grass family, native to tropical and warm temperate regions of the world. Its species are native to many countries in Asia, Africa, Australia, the Americas, and various oceanic islands.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cenchrus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cenchrus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cenchrus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Cenchrus setaceus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cenchrus setaceus
- Propagation
- Seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring, Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cenchrus setaceus?
Cenchrus setaceus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cenchrus setaceus need?
Cenchrus setaceus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Cenchrus setaceus hardy in the UK?
Cenchrus setaceus has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Cenchrus setaceus?
Seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring, Division in spring.
More in the Cenchrus genus
- Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'Fairy Tails Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum orientale 'Tall Tails'Oriental Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum alop. 'Karley Rose'
- Pennisetum villosa