About
This deciduous, clump-forming, densely-tufted perennial grass about 80cm in height, with upright or arching, linear mid-green leaves and softly bottlebrush-like, narrow, rose pink spikelets in panicles 10-14cm in length, produced in mid to late summer.
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
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
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, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas where pennisetum may be short-lived. See ornamental grasses cultivation
PruningRemove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or early summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free