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Fountain Grass Flower Wikimedia Commons
Poaceae

Fountain Grass Flower

Pennisetum setaceum

Movement and fluidity.

Family
Poaceae
Genus
Pennisetum
Native to
Africa, Middle East, Southwest Asia
Bloom season
Summer, Fall
Type
Perennial grass
Height
2-4 feet
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, adaptable
Water
Low
Hardiness
9-11
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Fountain grass gets its name from its arching, fountain-like growth habit.
  • The fuzzy, bottlebrush-like flower plumes can reach up to 15 inches long.
  • Purple fountain grass, the most popular cultivar, is considered invasive in Hawaii and parts of the US Southwest.
  • Each plume contains dozens of spikelets, each with long bristles that catch the wind for seed dispersal.
  • Despite being a perennial in warm climates, it is grown as an annual in colder regions and is one of the top-selling ornamental grasses.

Color meanings

0

Freedom

1

Grace

2

Adaptability

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Landscaping
  • Erosion control
  • Dried flower arrangements