grass

Purple Fountain Grass

Name: Purple Fountain Grass
Brand: Pennisetum
Availability: InStock

Pennisetum setaceum 'Purple Fountain Grass'

$8.39

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender perennial, grown as an annual

Native To

Africa, Middle East

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Pennisetum setaceum, commonly known as Purple Fountain Grass, is a clump-forming perennial grass with arching, finely textured leaves and striking purple flower plumes that resemble a fountain of color. This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant purple flower spikes, which add dramatic color and movement to garden landscapes, thriving best in full sun with well-drained soil.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vertical structure and movement with purple plumes, creating visual interest throughout summer.

Drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.

Supports insect diversity by providing habitat and nectar sources.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Romence Gardens

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$8.39

Fast Growing Trees

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Garden Goods Direct

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Place in full sun for best growth and color.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring.
Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively in fall
Avoid heavy pruning in late summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Swaying purple accent in bordersDrought-tolerant hedgeTextural focal point

Companion Plants

Sedum Lavender ornamental grasses Yarrow Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Fountain Grass questions

What zones can Purple Fountain Grass grow in?

Purple Fountain Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Fountain Grass deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Purple Fountain Grass, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Purple Fountain Grass bloom?

Purple Fountain Grass typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Fountain Grass need full sun?

Purple Fountain Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Purple Fountain Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Fountain Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.