Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ @ Wisley

Ornamental grasses are an integral part of the garden, and become more important as we approach autumn. The grace and texture they offer provide some freshness as the rest of the garden starts its autumnal senescence.

Look out for grasses in the Glasshouse Borders, Mixed Borders and elsewhere, specifically around the edges of Seven Acres. In the triangular bed near the restaurant we have a selection of grasses ideal for a smaller garden, and here you can find this Pennisetum. 

Don’t forget to look out for it in the Plant Centre too, where it is on offer in September.

 

Pennisetum

This genus of annual and perennial grasses comprises approximately 120 species found in tropical, sub-tropical and warm temperate zones across the world: native habitats range from woodland to savannah. Pennisetum is grown for its feathery panicles of spikelets borne in summer and autumn and look particularly effective in mixed borders.

The name Pennisetum is derived from the Latin words penna meaning a feather and seta a bristle.

 

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’

This plant is a compact and early-flowering grass with greenish-white spikelets that turn grey-brown as they mature and dark green leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn. Its compact form makes this Pennistum ideal for the smaller garden and the bottle brush-like flowerheads can be used both fresh and dried in flower arrangements.

The name alopecuroides derives from the Greek word alopekouros which translates as foxtail grass.

 

Cultivation

• Grow in full sun in a well-drained, moderately fertile soil

• Cut back dead top-growth by early spring

• In frost-prone areas mulch in winter with a dry material

 

Propagation

• Divide in late spring or early summer

 

Links

• Dividing grasses
• Tidying up perennial grasses