Overview
Pennisetum orientale is a tufted grass like in the genus Pennisetum, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous 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 orientale grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is low maintenance.
About
Cenchrus orientale, previously Pennisetum orientale, commonly known as the oriental fountain grass, is a species of flowering plant in the grass family Poaceae, native to North West Asia and North Africa. Growing to 60 cm (24 in) tall and broad, this decorative perennial grass forms clumps with multiple tufted panicles up to 14 cm (5.5 in) in length. The panicles are pale pink, maturing to brown. The plant is not entirely hardy, disliking prolonged freezing temperatures. It grows to around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and west-facing and south-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cenchrus orientalis
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
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
Plant details
Pennisetum orientale size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pennisetum orientale?
Pennisetum orientale prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pennisetum orientale need?
Pennisetum orientale 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 big does Pennisetum orientale grow?
Pennisetum orientale 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.
More in the Pennisetum genus
- Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Desert Plains'
- Pennisetum macrourumAfrican feather grass
- Pennisetum villosumfeathertop
