Overview
Pennisetum villosa is a grass in the genus Cenchrus, part of the Poaceae family. Pennisetum villosa grows best in full sun.
About
Pennisetum villosa is a grass in the family Poaceae placed within the genus Cenchrus. It is part of a group characterised by compact, bristled, burr-like inflorescences. In the UK it flowers from July to September. Species once treated as Pennisetum are commonly referred to as fountaingrasses.
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
Placed taxonomically in Cenchrus within the grass family Poaceae, Pennisetum villosa sits among species that occur across tropical and warm-temperate regions worldwide. Recent taxonomic revisions have merged many former Pennisetum taxa into Cenchrus, so names such as fountain grass are often used for plants in this group; their compact, bristled flowerheads give a recognisable texture when in bloom. For cultivation in Britain, select a sunny, well-drained and sheltered spot where soil does not remain waterlogged, as plants of this group perform best away from persistent winter wet. Allow flowerheads to develop through their UK season from July to September and remove dead material in late winter or early spring to make way for fresh growth. Sit Pennisetum villosa where its textured seedheads can be seen — gravel beds, mixed grass borders or at the back of a herbaceous border suit its architectural form. Be mindful of the spine-covered burs typical of Cenchrus: they can cling to clothing and animal fur and are an effective natural dispersal mechanism, so avoid placing the plant where burrs might be a nuisance.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cenchrus
- Sunlight
- full sun
Plant details
Pennisetum villosa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- grass
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pennisetum villosa?
Pennisetum villosa prefers full sun.
More in the Cenchrus genus
- Pennisetum 'Fairy Tails'Fairy Tails Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum orientale 'Tall Tails'Oriental Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum alop. 'Karley Rose'