Overview
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' is a tufted grass like in the genus Pennisetum, part of the Poaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. It is drought resistant and low maintenance. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, patio and container plants, cut flowers and flower borders and beds. It is native to Asia.
About
Cenchrus alopecuroides, previously Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as the Chinese pennisetum, Chinese fountaingrass, dwarf fountain grass, foxtail fountain grass, or swamp foxtail grass, is a species of perennial grass native to Asia and Australia. The culms are erect, and 60–100 cm long.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cenchrus alopecuroides
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.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pennisetum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds
- Native to
- Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Propagation
- Seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring, Division in spring or early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'?
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'?
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' need?
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' 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.
How do I prune Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
How big does Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' grow?
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' hardy in the UK?
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' 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 Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'?
Seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring, Division in spring or early summer.