Pennisetum 'Hameln' is a compact clump forming fountain grass with fine green foliage and showy cream colored bottlebrush plumes in late summer. Its tidy habit and manageable height offer soft movement and texture through the seasons.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil; tolerates dry or sandy conditions
Watering Needs: Low to moderate
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant
Native Status
Although widely cultivated, Pennisetum 'Hameln' is derived from Pennisetum alopecuroides, a species native to Asia.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Seed heads attract finches and other small songbirds in late fall and winter.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to accommodate its full rounded form.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for small borders, city gardens, containers, and as a soft edging plant. Blends well with colorful perennials and autumn blooming natives.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds bold flower heads and vertical contrast.
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Offers bright yellow contrast and a similar drought tolerance.
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Complements the fine grass blades with scent and structure.
- Salvia nemorosa (Wood Sage) - Provides upright purple blooms that play off the soft grass texture.
- Heuchera 'Palace Purple' - Provides dark foliage contrast beneath the fountain grass plumes.