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Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian's Choice'
  • RHS AGM

Chinese fountain grass 'Cassian's Choice'

'Cassian's Choice' is an upright, clump-forming grass to around 1m tall with arching, narrow, greenleaves that turn rich shades of orange and yellow in autumn. Pink-flushed pale brown, hairyflowers are borne in bottlebrush-like heads on tall stems from summer into autumn

Synonyms
Pennisetum 'Cassian's Choice'
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian'
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Brown Green
Autumn Pink Brown Orange Yellow Green
Winter Brown Brown
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Poaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. May need winter protection in colder areas. See ornamental grasses cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Patio and container plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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