With their dramatic leaves and spikes of showy flowers, ornamental grasses are quickly becoming a mainstay of the home garden. One of the showiest is purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’), popular for its reddish arching leaves and colorful flowers. Fast growing, purple fountain grass makes a fine hedge, specimen, or focal point at the back of a garden. It makes a dramatic statement in groupings and is a worthy addition to a container garden.
Also called red fountain grass, this sturdy ornamental grows three to four feet high and almost as wide. The striking spikes of flowers range in color from buff to pink to purple to red. The plant grows as a perennial in zones 9-11 and as an annual in colder climates. Purple fountain grass has no serious pests.
Growing Information for Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass grows best in full sun in well-drained soil. It is a moderately drought tolerant, heat tolerant, low maintenance ornamental plant. Plants spread, so should be spaced at least three feet apart. Clumps can be divided easily to produce more plants or to refresh old clumps, which can have dieback in the center. Purple fountain grass does not produce viable seeds. While that eliminates the possibility of propagation by seeds, it also eliminates the problem of seedlings spreading where they are not wanted.
In climates where temperatures stay above 20 degree F, purple fountain grass resumes growth in late spring or early summer. It makes the strongest growth in hot weather. Plants can be cut to within a few inches of the ground in fall or early spring. Home gardeners who like the winter character of the plant may prefer to wait until spring to cut it down.
Want to learn more about purple fountain grass?
Find photos and more information about purple fountain grass at these websites:
Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’ Purple Fountain Grass from University of Florida
Purple Fountain Grass from University of Illinois Extension
Photos of Purple Fountain Grass from Dave’s Garden