Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass, is a graceful warm season ornamental grass that forms dense arching clumps of narrow green foliage. In late summer it produces flowers that emerge in shades of tan, pink, or purple.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil; tolerates a range of types including sandy or loamy
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Seldom browsed by deer
Native Status
This species is native to East Asia but widely naturalized and cultivated in North America for ornamental use in gardens and landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Attracts seed eating birds such as finches and sparrows in fall and winter when seed heads mature.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides shelter and nesting material for overwintering insects and beneficial ground dwellers.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 24 - 36 in apart to allow for full clump development and airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for borders, meadow plantings, and massing in large drifts. Effective as an accent plant in mixed perennial beds or used to soften hardscapes with its arching form and seasonal texture.
Companion Plants
- Rudbeckia hirta (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers bold yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with the airy flower spikes of fountain grass.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds upright structure and pollinator appeal through the summer months alongside the grassy foliage.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Complements the fine foliage of fountain grass with silvery stems and late season lavender flowers.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Contributes fine textured foliage and bright yellow blooms in summer, enhancing the grass’s fountain shape.
- Salvia nemorosa 'May Night' - Provides purple spikes that echo the tones of emerging fountain grass blooms and attract bees.