Fountain Grass
Cenchrus setaceus
Also listed as Pennisetum ruppellii, Pennisetum setaceum
Also known as Crimson Fountain Grass, Purple Fountain Grass, African Fountain Grass
Climate Match for your location
See how well Fountain Grass grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
An ornamental grass known for its feathery, fountain-like plumes that emerge in late summer and fall. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and adds vertical interest and movement to garden landscapes.
Why grow it
Fountain grass provides fine-textured vertical accent with lower maintenance than many ornamental grasses once established in suitable conditions. Compared to related Pennisetum species, C. setaceus produces particularly delicate, feathery inflorescences that catch light effectively. It tolerates poor, sandy, or gravelly soils where many ornamentals struggle, making it useful for challenging microclimates rather than prime garden real estate.
Watch out for
In areas with consistent summer moisture or high humidity, this grass may develop fungal issues or decline unexpectedly despite hot-dry preferences. Container specimens may require adjustment to typical watering schedules as pot drainage differs significantly from in-ground conditions. Regular deadheading after flowering can prevent excessive self-seeding if that becomes a concern in your garden.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
North Africa and the Middle East
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
Cenchrus setaceus 'Rubrum' is a cultivar of Cenchrus setaceus. This burgundy-leaved selection is grown as a sterile ornamental grass and does not set viable seed, unlike the species.
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
An ornamental grass known for its feathery, fountain-like plumes that emerge in late summer and fall. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and adds vertical interest and movement to garden landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Fountain Grass grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Fountain grass provides fine-textured vertical accent with lower maintenance than many ornamental grasses once established in suitable conditions. Compared to related Pennisetum species, C. setaceus produces particularly delicate, feathery inflorescences that catch light effectively. It tolerates poor, sandy, or gravelly soils where many ornamentals struggle, making it useful for challenging microclimates rather than prime garden real estate.
Watch out for
In areas with consistent summer moisture or high humidity, this grass may develop fungal issues or decline unexpectedly despite hot-dry preferences. Container specimens may require adjustment to typical watering schedules as pot drainage differs significantly from in-ground conditions. Regular deadheading after flowering can prevent excessive self-seeding if that becomes a concern in your garden.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Poaceae
Native Range
North Africa and the Middle East
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar shrubs you might consider:
Enter your ZIP code to see top native species and strong climate fits for you.
Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
Cenchrus setaceus 'Rubrum' is a cultivar of Cenchrus setaceus. This burgundy-leaved selection is grown as a sterile ornamental grass and does not set viable seed, unlike the species.