Fountain Grass
Pennisetum spp.
Also known as
Kikuyu Grass
Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Tender
8a-10b
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1.5m | Max | 2m |
1m | Min | 1m |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Fountain Grass
Fountain Grass Overview
Pennisetum is no longer recognised as a genus. Plants once included are now considered part of the genus Cenchrus.
Common problems with Fountain Grass
Generally pest and disease free.
How to harvest Fountain Grass
Since the inflorescence are suitable for dried and fresh arrangements, harvest cut linear leaf at the base. When harvest as a food or a crop, leaves can be cut at the base either by hand or using machinery.
How to propagate Fountain Grass
Division
Divide in late spring or early autumn. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. Pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame.
Seed
Sow seed in early spring in warm soil and finely cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 3 weeks.
Rhizomes
Rhizomes are the major means of spread in most species. Cultivation or grubbing are used and the detached rhizome sections can form new plants.
Special features of Fountain Grass
Attracts useful insects
Insects such as butterflies and flies.
Pot plant
They add beauty to decorative containers, given sufficient drainage holes.
Drought resistant
Generally drought tolerant.
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Fountain Grass
Medicinal
In African traditional medicine the seed is used to treat chest disorders, leprosy, blennorrhoea and poisonings.
Edible
The genus includes pearl millet (P. glaucum), is grown as a grain crop and is an important food crop.
