Fountain Grass Pennisetum alopecuroides
ABOUT
The plant known as fountain grass is recognized for its graceful, arching form which gives it a fountain-like appearance. It has slender, green leaves that sway with the slightest breeze, making it a dynamic addition to any landscape. In summer through fall, it produces feathery, bottlebrush-like flower spikes that emerge a purplish or mauve color before fading to a soft, creamy tan. As the seasons transition, the foliage can also change, taking on golden, orange, or red hues, which add to its visual interest. The texture of fountain grass is fine, adding a soft, airy feel to gardens or as part of naturalized areas. Because of its visually pleasing shape, it's often used as a focal point in design, standing out notably against various backdrops or when the sunlight catches its ethereal flower heads.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Poaceae
Synonyms
Fountain Grass, Swamp Foxtail Grass, Chinese Fountain Grass, Chinese Pennisetum
Common names
Cenchrus alopecuroides, Pennisetum compressum, Pennisetum japonicum.
ToxicityTo humans
Fountain grass is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant as it is generally considered safe and non-toxic. Therefore, ingesting parts of fountain grass should not lead to any significant toxicological consequences for humans.
To pets
Fountain grass is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and other domestic animals. There should be no symptoms of poisoning in pets due to the ingestion of fountain grass, and it is not expected to cause any serious health issues for them.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Brown
Height
2-3 feet [60-90 cm]
Spread
2-3 feet [60-90 cm]
Plant type
Grass
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass, is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal in gardens and landscapes. Its graceful, fountain-like foliage adds texture and movement.
- Drought Tolerance: Fountain grass is drought-tolerant once established, making it a suitable choice for water-wise gardens in regions with limited rainfall.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Low Maintenance: Fountain grass requires minimal care, making it an excellent option for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The grass provides shelter and food for birds and small wildlife, such as seeds for birds and cover for ground-nesting species.
- Seasonal Interest: It offers visual interest across multiple seasons, with green foliage in spring and summer, turning golden to reddish-brown in autumn, and attractive seed heads in winter.
- Versatility: This plant is versatile in landscape design and can be used in a variety of settings including borders, mass plantings, and as a focal point in garden beds.
- Diversity of Cultivars: There are many cultivars available with different heights, forms, and colors, allowing for customization in garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass, can be used in erosion control projects due to its fast-growing and dense rooting characteristics which help stabilize soil.
- The dried flowers of fountain grass can be used in crafts and floral arrangements, where they provide a natural and long-lasting element.
- This grass is often planted in urban environments because of its tolerance to pollution and ability to thrive in a variety of tough urban conditions.
- Fountain grass can be used as a natural screen or privacy barrier in landscape designs, with thick clumps that obstruct the view.
- The plant is sometimes used in noise reduction efforts; the dense foliage can help absorb sound in loud areas like highways and industrial sites.
- Fountain grass is used in dried flower sales and ornamental products, contributing to the economic value for farmers and artisans specializing in decorative plant products.
- The grass is also used to create a naturalistic or wild garden aesthetic, adding movement and texture to garden designs intended to attract wildlife.
- As a fire-resistant plant, fountain grass can be incorporated into fire-wise landscaping practices to create defensive spaces against wildfires.
- Some communities utilize fountain grass in ceremonies and traditional practices, using the plant for its symbolism or aesthetic value.
- Fountain grass can serve as companion planting in agricultural settings, where its presence can help deter certain pests or provide beneficial habitat for pollinators.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Fountain Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Fountain Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass, often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to withstand drought and grow in various soil conditions.
- Elegance: The graceful, arching form of fountain grass is associated with elegance and beauty, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens.
- Privacy: As a tall, dense grass, it is often used in landscapes to create private spaces, symbolizing the desire for solitude or peaceful retreat.
- Growth and New Beginnings: Fountain grass, with its rapid growth and seasonal life cycle, represents growth and the promise of new beginnings.
WaterFountain grass prefers consistent moisture, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Generally, water the grass every week with approximately 1 inch of water either through rainfall or manual watering, which equates to about 0.6 gallons per square foot. During hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Ensure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging. In the cooler seasons of fall and winter, reduce watering to match the plant's reduced growth and evaporation rates.
LightFountain grass thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant it in a spot that is exposed to full sun to ensure it receives ample light for optimal growth. It can also tolerate partial shade, but its growth may not be as vigorous or its blooms as plentiful compared to when it is grown in full sunlight.
TemperatureFountain grass is hardy and grows best in areas with temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but it often becomes dormant in cooler climates during winter. The ideal temperature range for active growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune fountain grass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Trimming back the dead foliage and flower stalks to about 3 to 4 inches above ground level encourages fresh growth and maintains a tidy appearance. Annual pruning is sufficient to keep the grass in shape. Prune the grass just once a year at this time to also remove any weather-damaged foliage from the winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFountain Grass prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand could provide the ideal structure and nutrients for healthy growth.
RepottingFountain Grass, being a perennial, doesn't require frequent repotting. It's best to divide and repot it every 2 to 3 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate its growth.
Humidity & MistingFountain Grass is adaptable and does not have strict humidity requirements. It thrives in outdoor conditions, where the humidity is natural and not controlled.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light; water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-draining soil, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cyclePennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in the spring when soil temperatures rise consistently above 55°F. The seeds quickly develop into small seedlings, which establish themselves with fibrous root systems. As the plant matures through the growing season, it produces narrow, linear leaves that form dense, arching clumps, giving it the characteristic fountain-like appearance. Throughout the summer, fountain grass enters its reproductive stage, sending up flower spikes called inflorescences, which are fluffy, brush-like structures that vary in color from white to pink or purple. After pollination, these flowers produce seeds that will drop to the ground and propagate the next generation of plants. Upon the arrival of winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and fountain grass enters a period of dormancy until the following spring, when the cycle begins anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Fountain Grass, commonly known as Pennisetum alopecuroides, is often propagated by dividing its clumps. The best time to do this is in spring, once the threat of frost has passed and the grass is commencing new growth. To propagate, carefully dig up an established fountain grass clump and use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root mass into sections, each with several growing points or tillers. Ensure that each division has a fair amount of roots attached. Replant the divisions promptly at the same soil level they were growing at previously, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method of division helps maintain the vigor of fountain grass while also allowing gardeners to multiply their plants efficiently.
