Growing Pennisetum
Latin Name Pronunciation: pen-nih-see' tum
The genus Pennisetum, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, includes both annual and perennial Grasses, including some tender perennials that are grown as annuals in colder climates. Most are clump-forming warm-season Grasses that actively grow from June into early September, remaining green through hot weather then going dormant in fall. The common name, Fountain Grass, aptly describes Pennisetum's graceful mounding form.
Growing Pennisetum
Plant the crown just at soil level, or slightly above if you will be adding mulch. Spacing between plants is indicated on the back of the plant tag.
Light: Sun
Watering: Low water needs, tolerant of dry soils and periods of drought. Water deeply when planting and supplement as needed to establish.
Fertilizer: Does not need fertilizer. Excess nutrients can cause plants to flop. Mulch with previous season’s growth, sterile straw, or gravel, if possible. If mulching with wood products, apply sparingly and do not let them pile up around the crown.
Soil: Medium to dry, well-drained soil. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions.
Pests/Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free, although voles may feed on underground parts. Excess moisture-retaining wood-product mulch can foster fungal diseases.
Dividing/Transplanting: May not need dividing, but if the center of the plant dies out or is diminished by voles, dig up the entire clump with a sharp sturdy spade and cut into sections for replanting. Dividing and transplanting are best done in spring when plants are actively growing, not in fall or when plants are flowering.
End-of-Season Care: In cool climates many Pennisetum varieties will look good well into winter. You may choose to cut them down to a few inches in fall (they’re a wonderful addition to dried bouquets), wait until they start looking bedraggled after a few storms, or leave them until spring for winter interest and to provide food and habitat for wildlife. If you find that they self-sow in your garden, you can always remove flowering stems and let foliage remain.