Pennisetum alopecuroides

Pennisetum alopecuroides

Why Buy Me?

• Year round interest
• Best grouped with similar ornamental grasses for maximum effect
• Ideal for a sensory garden theme

Growing Conditions

Light:
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Best flowering and foliage colour develop in full sun.

Soil:
Prefers well-drained soil. Adaptable to a range of soils from sandy to loamy, but dislikes heavy, waterlogged soils. Performs well in neutral to slightly acidic conditions.

Exposure:
Grows best in sheltered to exposed locations. Hardy in most UK gardens, but mulch may be needed in colder areas for winter protection.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderately drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional watering in prolonged dry spells.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring or early autumn. Spring planting encourages good establishment before winter.

Spacing:
Space plants about 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) apart. Mature height is typically 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) tall with a similar spread.

Watering & Fertilisation:
Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, water in dry spells. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, avoiding mulch directly around the crown. Cut back old foliage to about 10 cm (4 inches) above the ground in late winter or early spring before new shoots emerge.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in early spring or early autumn. Dividing every 3–4 years rejuvenates the plant and controls size.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New shoots emerge fresh and green, forming graceful, arching clumps.

Summer:
Produces soft, bottlebrush-like flower spikes (inflorescences) from mid to late summer, typically creamy white to pale pink. The foliage remains lush and green.

Autumn:
Flower spikes mature to a golden-tan colour, adding warm tones to the garden. Foliage may take on a yellowish tint before dying back.

Winter:
Deciduous. Dies back to the ground after frost. Cut back old foliage in late winter to prepare for new growth.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Provides shelter for insects and birds. Flowers can attract some pollinators.

Garden Use:
Ideal for mixed borders, wildlife gardens, naturalistic and meadow-style plantings, or as a specimen grass. Adds movement and soft texture with its arching form and attractive flower heads.

Companion Plants:
Works well with:

• Perovskia (Russian Sage)

• Echinacea

• Rudbeckia

• Sedum

• Salvia

Combines nicely with both bold and delicate foliage plants, complementing summer and autumn flower displays.

Transform your home and garden with the Pennisetum alopecuroides, a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.