Pennisetum alopecuroides f. viridescens
green Chinese fountain grass
A clump-forming, perennial grass with narrow, flat, arching, bright green leaves turning golden brown in autumn. Softly hairy, dark-purple-tinged flowerheads are produced in late summer and early autumn
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Purple Green | Gold | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Tufted
- Genus
Pennisetum can be annual or perennial, evergreen or deciduous grasses, clump-forming or spreading in habit, with linear leaves and narrow flowering panicles with conspicuous bristles
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- E Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a warm glasshouse in spring or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Remove dead foliage and old, flowered stems in spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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