Pennisetum Plants (Fountain Grass)

Shop Pennisetum plants for soft flower plumes, movement and late-summer colour in sunny borders and pots. Also known as fountain grass, these ornamental grasses are ideal for prairie-style planting, contemporary borders and containers, with varieties ranging from compact forms to taller architectural grasses.
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Pennisetum for Sunny Borders, Pots & Prairie Planting

Pennisetum, commonly known as fountain grass, brings soft texture and movement to the garden with arching foliage and distinctive feathery flower plumes. These ornamental grasses work particularly well in sunny borders, containers and prairie-style planting, where their flowers catch the light and move gently in the breeze.

Different varieties vary in size, foliage colour and hardiness, so it is worth checking the individual plant before choosing a position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I plant Pennisetum? +

Most Pennisetum prefer a warm, sunny position with well-drained soil. They work particularly well among flowering perennials, in gravel-style planting and towards the middle or front of mixed borders depending on the variety.

Are Pennisetum grasses hardy? +

Hardiness varies considerably between varieties.

Types such as Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ are considerably hardier and can be grown outdoors year after year in suitable conditions.

Purple-leaved varieties such as ‘Rubrum’ and ‘Fireworks’ are much more tender and may need frost protection or overwintering in a sheltered, frost-free position in colder parts of the UK.

Always check the individual variety before planting.

Can Pennisetum grow in pots? +

Yes. Pennisetum can make excellent container plants, particularly the more compact varieties. Use a pot with good drainage and position it somewhere sunny.

Container-grown plants may need more regular watering during warm weather, and tender varieties can be easier to protect over winter when grown in pots.

When does Pennisetum flower? +

Many Pennisetum produce their characteristic soft flower plumes from late summer into autumn, making them useful for extending interest in the garden after many earlier-flowering plants have finished.

When should I cut back Pennisetum? +

Hardy deciduous Pennisetum can usually be left standing through winter, allowing the old foliage and flower heads to provide structure before being cut back ahead of fresh spring growth.

Tender varieties should be treated according to their individual winter requirements.

What should I plant with Pennisetum? +

Pennisetum looks particularly effective with Salvias, Agapanthus, Verbena, Echinacea and other sun-loving perennials. The soft grass plumes contrast beautifully with stronger flower shapes and help create a relaxed, naturalistic planting style.

Explore our Ornamental Grasses, Prairie Style Plants, Perennials and Full Sun Plants for more planting ideas.