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Grass LikeSynonym

Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'

fountain grass 'Rubrum'

'Rubrum' is a hybrid between P. macrostachyum and P. setaceum. Strappy, dark-red foliage emerges in spring, initially flushed green. Arching stems bear bottlebrush-shaped flowers in late summer to autumn, their silver and red plumes eventually becoming brown

Synonyms
Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Red
Summer Grey Silver Red Red
Autumn Brown Grey Silver Red Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

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

Drought and heat tolerant, but requires frost-free conditions so will need winter protection or moving into an unheated glasshouse if grown in a pot

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Cut back last season's foliage in early spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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