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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

Synonyms
Pennisetum viridescens

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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 Purple Green Green
Autumn Purple Green Gold
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Poaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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

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