Grass Pen. Nat. Arb. Black Fountain

Nat. Arb. Black Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘National Arboretum’, commonly known as Black Fountain Grass, is a warm-season ornamental grass valued for its rich, dark flower plumes and graceful, arching habit. Narrow green leaves emerge in spring, form a flowing mound through summer, and turn golden-tan in fall, followed by deep purple to near-black bottlebrush plumes in mid to late summer that gradually fade to tan and persist into fall. Its strong contrast and soft texture make it a striking addition to borders and mass 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 color)
Soil: Average, well-drained soils; adaptable
Water: Moderate; tolerates some drought once established

Wildlife: Provides cover for birds


Features & Landscape Uses


Dark purple to near-black plumes for strong contrast



Soft, arching habit adds movement



Excellent for borders, massing, and accents



Provides late-season interest




Care
Cut back to the ground in late winter before new growth emerges. Plant in full sun for best flowering and plume color. 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

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

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

Flower color

Brown

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Average, Highly Adaptable, Well Drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation Plant, Mass Planting

Shape

Arching, Clump, Mounded

Drought tolerant

Yes