About
Clump-forming, compact, rounded, evergreen perennial grass about 60cm tall, with flat, linear, bright golden spring leaves that mature to pale lime green in summer, and bristly, yellow-green flower spikelets in narrow oblong panicles produced in summer and autumn.
About the genus
Pennisetum can be annual or perennial, evergreen or deciduous grasses, clump-forming or spreading in habit, with linear leaves and narrow flowering panicles with conspicuous bristles
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter. Ideal for container cultivation and overwintered in a cold greenhouse or provide winter protection in colder areas. See Ornamental grasses cultivation
PruningCut back dead foliage and old flowered stems in early spring
PropagationPropagate by division in late spring or early summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free