Grass Pen. Fountain

Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as Fountain Grass, is a warm-season ornamental grass valued for its graceful, arching form and soft, bottlebrush-like flower plumes. Narrow green leaves emerge in spring, form a flowing mound through summer, and turn golden-yellow to tan in fall, followed by abundant, feathery plumes in mid to late summer that persist into winter for added texture and movement. Its soft, cascading habit brings a natural, flowing look to plantings.

Type: Perennial ornamental grass

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 2–3 ft (to 3–4 ft in flower)
(10-year size: forms expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Arching, mounded, clump-forming
Light: Full sun (best flowering and form)
Soil: Average, well-drained soils; adaptable
Water: Moderate; tolerates some drought once established

Wildlife: Provides cover for birds


Features & Landscape Uses


Soft, flowing habit adds movement



Showy bottlebrush plumes in late summer



Great for borders, massing, or accents



Adds texture to mixed plantings




Care
Cut back to the ground in late winter before new growth emerges. Plant in full sun for best flowering and habit. Prefers well-drained soils and benefits from good winter drainage. Divide every few years in spring to maintain vigor.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass

Height

2-3'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Spring, Late Summer, Summer

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Average, Well Drained

Shape

Arching, Clump, Mounded

Drought tolerant

Yes