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Purple Fountain Grass

Pennisetum Purpureum

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Overview

Purple Fountain Grass, Pennisetum purpureum, is an ornamental perennial with showy, burgundy plumes reaching 3-4 feet high. This clump-forming grass adds texture with its cascading, purplish foliage, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Ideal for zones 9-11, it's used for striking contrast and movement in landscapes. Note: it's considered invasive in some regions; check local guidelines before planting. Not cold-hardy; treat as an annual in cooler climates.

Sun FullWater Low, MediumZones 8–11

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Low, Medium
USDA zones
8–11

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Poaceae

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Photos (25)

Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — is an ornamental perennial with showy
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — burgundy plumes reaching 3-4 feet high
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — This clump-forming grass adds texture with its cascading
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — thriving in full sun and well-drained soil
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Ideal for zones 9-11, it's used for striking contrast and movement in landscapes
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Not cold-hardy; treat as an annual in cooler climates
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Note: it's considered invasive in some regions; check local guidelines before planting
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — is an ornamental grass renowned for its striking
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — scientifically termed Pennisetum purpureum
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — with texture that adds depth to any design
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — burgundy-hued foliage and feathery flower spikes
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — In mid to late summer, this grass produces bottlebrush-like flower plumes that soar above the foliage
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — especially in high heat conditions
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — It thrives in well-drained fertile soils and requires regular watering
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — although it's relatively drought-tolerant once established
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Minimal maintenance is necessary
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Moreover, its non-invasive nature ensures that it won't overrun other plantings within the garden
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Providing year-round interest with minimal upkeep
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — or as a container specimen
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — Purple Fountain Grass is an excellent addition to any garden seeking a touch of drama and elegance
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — grass for full
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, image 25
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — burgundy plumes reaching 3-4 feet high; with texture that adds depth to any design
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum Purpureum) — is an ornamental perennial with showy; thriving in full sun and well-drained soil

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