Overview
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' is a ornamental grass in the genus Cenchrus, part of the Poaceae family. Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Suggested uses include borders, containers and ornamental grass gardens.
About
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' is an ornamental fountain grass in the genus Cenchrus (family Poaceae), notable for its bristled, fountain-like flowerheads. The cultivar belongs to a group of grasses historically placed in Pennisetum but now treated within Cenchrus by many taxonomists. Flowering occurs from July to September. The inflorescences bear bristles that can form burr-like structures, so handle seedheads with care.
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
In the garden
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' sits within the grass family Poaceae and the genus Cenchrus, a group that occurs across tropical and warm temperate regions worldwide; many species formerly placed in Pennisetum are now included in Cenchrus in recent taxonomic work. As a fountain grass cultivar it is valued mainly for its textured, bristled flowerheads, which appear over the summer months and provide vertical and textural contrast in planting schemes. Treat the plant as a summer-flowering ornamental: the flowering period is July to September. The inflorescences are bristled and may develop burr-like structures, a characteristic of the genus, so wear gloves when handling seedheads. Management commonly involves removing dead flower stalks and, where plants form dense clumps, dividing them to restore vigour; these measures also help maintain an ordered planting area. In a UK context the cultivar is used where a grassy, upright accent is required through the summer display. Its summer flowerheads make it useful for adding rhythm and movement within mixed beds or along borders, and the retained heads can contribute architectural interest before any winter pruning is carried out.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cenchrus
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Exposure
- open
Plant details
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- ornamental grass
- Suggested uses
- borders, containers, ornamental grass gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'
- Cultivation
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Water moderately. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Propagation
- division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'?
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Water moderately. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'?
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' prefers full sun. It suits open positions.
What soil does Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' need?
Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails' grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
How do I propagate Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'?
Division.
More in the Cenchrus genus
- Pennisetum orientale 'Tall Tails'Oriental Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum alop. 'Karley Rose'
- Pennisetum villosa