Pennisetum 'Jambalaya' is a compact ornamental grass known for its rich burgundy foliage and fine textured blades that form a dense arching clump. It brings movement and contrast to the garden with airy bottlebrush plumes that emerge mid to late summer and persist through fall catching light and swaying in the breeze. Ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings, it performs well in heat and humidity and maintains a striking presence even in late season displays.
Height & Spread: 24 - 30 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soils; tolerates a range of soil types
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some drought
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer due to fibrous foliage
Native Status
Pennisetum 'Jambalaya' is a cultivated variety derived from tropical and subtropical Pennisetum species. It is not native to North America but is widely used in ornamental landscapes for its foliage color and drought resilience.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- The mature seed heads attract small birds such as finches and sparrows especially in late summer and fall.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides cover and egg laying sites for beneficial insects like ladybugs and ground beetles that shelter in the dense grass base.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 18 - 24 in spacing for uninterrupted clump formation and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Effective in mixed borders, mass plantings, and as an accent in patio containers or modern landscapes where its bold color can shine.
Companion Plants
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies' - Airy white blooms mimic the texture of grass plumes and flutter among the blades.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Soft yellow daisies create contrast and bloom continuously alongside the grass.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Pink purple blooms echo the warm hues of the foliage and offer long season interest.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Vertical purple spires offset the grassy form and deep color of 'Jambalaya'.
- Verbena bonariensis - Tall see through stems with lavender flower clusters complement the height and motion of the grass.