close up of leaf of italian parsley

Chinese Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides
Poaceae

Growth Habit

Grass/Sedge

Description

A bold and early-blooming selection, Red Head is an eye-catching treat year-round. It begins blooming a full month earlier than other cultivars. Flower spikes are 8 inches long, and are suffused with deep, rich color beginning at summer's end and continuing through autumn and into winter in warm climates. Like all Pennisetums, the blooms dry right on the plant and make nice winter accents. Quick-growing and very robust, it will reach full size within a couple of years.

Source of plant

Wayside Gardens, Nature Hills Nursery

USDA Hardiness Zone

5

Special characteristics

flower color, flowering season