About
A clump-forming, perennial grass, to 60cm in height, with arching, linear leaves and hairy, narrow, silvery rose-pink panicles, 10-14cm in length, like soft bottle-brushes.
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
AspectWest-facing, South-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 usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas
PruningRemove dead foliage and old flowered stems in early spring before growth begins
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free