Purple Fountain Grass Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum'
ABOUT
Commonly known as Purple Fountain Grass, Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum' is a perennial with a clump-forming habit, boasting gracefully arching leaves that provide a dramatic flair in landscapes and garden settings. The foliage of this plant is a striking burgundy-purple color, adding a touch of warmth as it sways with the slightest breeze. The texture of the leaves is narrow and linear, with a cascade-like form that resembles a fountain—hence the name. Purple Fountain Grass is also celebrated for its showy flower plumes. These flowers emerge in the warmer months, presenting a foxtail-like appearance. They rise above the foliage on sturdy stalks and display a feathery, purplish-pink color that fades to a soft tan as the season progresses. These plumes add an airy quality to the dense clumps of colorful leaves beneath them. The overall appearance of this ornamental grass is lush and tropical, yet it manages to maintain its visual appeal through a variety of conditions. Its rich hue and dynamic texture make it a favorite for adding contrast to green landscapes or complementing other plantings with its deep, vibrant tones.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Poaceae.
Synonyms
Purple Fountain Grass, Red Fountain Grass, Purple Pennisetum.
Common names
Cenchrus advena, Cenchrus setaceus, Pennisetum setaceum, Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'.
ToxicityTo humans
Purple Fountain Grass is not known to be toxic to humans. However, it's always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not commonly used for food, as individual allergies and sensitivities can cause adverse reactions.
To pets
Purple Fountain Grass is not known to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, it is generally advised to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption due to the potential for individual sensitivities or gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Burgundy
Flower color
Varies
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Grass
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The striking red-purple foliage and fluffy, rose-colored plumes add beauty and a touch of the exotic to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Purple fountain grass is able to withstand periods of low water availability, making it suitable for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, no need for frequent watering or pruning, which makes it an easy choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Heat Resistance: It thrives in hot conditions, which is perfect for gardens in warmer climates.
- Versatility: Its unique appearance makes it ideal for a variety of landscape uses, including borders, accent planting, and container gardening.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Purple fountain grass tends to have few issues with pests or diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Fast Growth: It can grow rapidly, providing quick coverage and achieving its full ornamental effect within a single growing season.
- Wildlife Attraction: While not its main feature, the plant can attract birds which feed on its seeds, adding a dynamic wildlife component to the garden.
- Soil Erosion Control: Its root system helps to bind soil, which can prevent erosion on slopes and in areas prone to degradation.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Container Gardening: Purple Fountain Grass can be used in large containers to add height and texture to mixed plantings, making it a great accent for patio or balcony displays.
- Erosion Control: This grass's dense root systems can help stabilize slopes and areas prone to erosion, protecting the soil from being washed away by rain or wind.
- Photography Backdrop: Photographers may use Purple Fountain Grass in garden photography to create a soft, dreamy background with its feathery plumes and rich color.
- Dried Arrangements: The seed heads of Purple Fountain Grass can be dried and used in floral displays, adding long-lasting interest to indoor arrangements.
- Sound Barrier: When planted densely, Purple Fountain Grass can help muffle noise pollution, making it a natural choice for urban gardens or areas near busy roads.
- Livestock Fodder: While not the most common use, in some parts of the world, the grass can be used as fodder for livestock, although it's not the most nutritious option.
- Craft Material: The dried inflorescences of the grass can be used in crafts, such as the making of wreaths, or for decorative purposes in art projects.
- Culinary Use: Edible species related to Purple Fountain Grass are used in traditional cuisines; however, this ornamental variety is not edible and is used strictly for decorative purposes.
- Seasonal Decorations: During the fall, Purple Fountain Grass can be incorporated into outdoor autumn decor, offering a festive and natural element to the setup.
- Theatrical Scenery: The vibrant and dramatic appearance of Purple Fountain Grass makes it suitable for use in theatrical productions or photo shoots as part of the set design to create an exotic ambiance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiPurple Fountain Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityPurple Fountain Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace and Elegance: The Purple Fountain Grass, with its cascading leaves and deep colors, often symbolizes grace and elegance due to its fountain-like, arching foliage that can add a touch of sophistication to any setting.
- Mystery and Privacy: Due to its dense growth and darkly colored leaves, Purple Fountain Grass can also symbolize mystery and privacy, representing areas that are hidden or protected by the veil of its leaves.
- Movement and Change: The way the grass sways with the wind can symbolize movement and change, representing flexibility and the ability to adapt to life's changes.
WaterPurple Fountain Grass should be watered once a week, providing about one to one and a half gallons of water for each plant. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water twice per week to maintain consistent soil moisture. It’s important to avoid overwatering; ensure the plant has well-draining soil to prevent root rot. When watering, aim for deep, thorough soakings to encourage strong root development, rather than frequent, light sprinklings.
LightPurple Fountain Grass thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. While it can tolerate some partial shade, too little sunlight may result in less vigorous growth and fewer plumes.
TemperaturePurple Fountain Grass prefers temperatures that are consistently above 60°F and can tolerate heat up to around 90°F. It can survive briefly in temperatures as low as 20°F, but it is generally sensitive to frost and cold weather. The ideal temperature range for its robust growth is between 70°F and 85°F.
PruningPruning Purple Fountain Grass, also known as 'cutting back', should occur in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the entire plant to about 4 to 6 inches from the ground to remove old foliage and make room for fresh growth. Pruning once a year is typically enough to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPurple Fountain Grass prefers a well-draining soil mix consisting of loam, peat, and sand with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Amend regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage for optimal growth conditions.
RepottingPurple Fountain Grass should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Use a pot that is one size larger than the current one to ensure sufficient space for the roots.
Humidity & MistingPurple Fountain Grass thrives at average room humidity levels. It is adaptable and does not require specific humidity adjustments in typical home or garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, water moderately, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, provide space for air flow, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum', commonly known as Red Fountain Grass, begins with germination from seed or vegetative propagation through division. The plant rapidly grows a clump-forming base and long, arching purple or maroon foliage. As it matures, it develops upright flower plumes that start out purple and fade to a tan color as they age. These plumes persist through the growing season and can remain visually appealing even when dry. During the cooler months or in response to drought conditions, Red Fountain Grass may enter a period of dormancy, where growth slows or ceases and the plant conserves energy. With the return of favorable conditions, such as warmth and moisture in spring, the grass resumes growth, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum') is through division. This is typically done in the spring, as warmer temperatures and the beginning of the growing season give the divided plants the best chance to establish themselves. To propagate by division, the gardener would carefully lift the grass from the ground, ensuring there is a good amount of roots on each section. These divisions are then separated, usually by hand or with a sharp knife, making sure that each new section has at least one growth point or crown. It is important not to let the roots dry out during this process, so immediate replanting is suggested. The divisions are then planted at the same depth they were growing at originally and watered well, with about one to two inches of water (2.5 to 5 centimeters), to encourage new root growth.
