Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Ornamental Grass

Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides

Fountain Grass <em>Pennisetum alopecuroides</em> 'Hameln'
Fountain Grass Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'
 
Features

Graceful arching foliage, forming nice mound shaped plants. Showy flowers emerge in mid-July. The stiff foxtail like flowers are borne on arching stems starting out pinkish-rose and changing to reddish brown. Foliage turns yellow in the fall.

This is a clumping warm season grass.

 
 
Culture
Prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun but will tolerate a wide range of soils once established. 
 
Cultivars

'Hameln' 2-3' dwarf form

'Little Bunny' 10-12" miniature form

'Moudry' 18-24" dark green foliage with nearly black flower heads

'Little Honey' 6-12" variegated foliage

'Red Head' 3-4' green foliage with red flower plumes a month before other cultivars

 
 
Mature Height
2-4 Feet
 
Size
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
Variegated
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage


 
Additional Notes
Plants do poorly in shade and may not flower if too shady.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic