Overview
Pennisetum villosum is a tufted grass like in the genus Pennisetum, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Pennisetum villosum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH.
About
Cenchrus longisetus, previously Pennisetum villosum, is a species of flowering plant in the family Poaceae, known by the common name feathertop grass or just feathertop. It is native to northeastern Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, and it is grown elsewhere as an ornamental plant. It can sometimes be found growing wild where it has escaped cultivation. This is a perennial grass growing in rhizomatous clumps, producing erect stems up to about 75 centimeters tall. It grows to around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cenchrus longisetus
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
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
Plant details
Pennisetum villosum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pennisetum villosum?
Pennisetum villosum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pennisetum villosum need?
Pennisetum villosum 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 villosum grow?
Pennisetum villosum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
More in the Pennisetum genus
- Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Desert Plains'
- Pennisetum macrourumAfrican feather grass
- Pennisetum orientaleoriental fountain grass
