Pennisetum 'Red Head' is a robust fountain grass known for its early appearing burgundy red plumes that deepen with age. With a bold upright habit and arching foliage it provides great height, movement, and vivid late season color to sunny gardens.
Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 30 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil; tolerates sandy or average conditions
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Seldom browsed by deer
Native Status
Cultivated hybrid not native to North America. It is bred for ornamental use and garden performance.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Birds
- Seed heads provide late season forage for goldfinches and other granivorous birds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 30 - 36 in apart to showcase individual form and allow for mature spread.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent as a tall accent in perennial borders, large containers, or prairie style groupings. Works well in backdrops or along fences and sunny foundations.
Companion Plants
- Heliopsis helianthoides (False Sunflower) - Offers height and golden blooms to contrast the red plumes.
- Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome' - Complements the season with bold purple blooms and pollinator value.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' - Pairs well in large spaces with matching fall color tones.
- Amsonia hubrichtii - Provides fine foliage and golden autumn tones for texture.
- Verbena bonariensis - Adds airy purple flowers to balance the dense grass structure.