grass

Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass

Pennisetum orientale 'Tall Tails'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Pennisetum orientale 'Tall Tails' is a graceful, clump-forming ornamental grass with narrow, arching foliage and fluffy, bottlebrush-like flower spikes that sway elegantly in the breeze. This cultivar is distinguished by its notably tall, airy flower plumes that provide striking vertical accents and attract pollinators, making it ideal for ornamental borders and naturalistic plantings.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds airy texture and movement to garden beds with its feathery plumes.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Provides habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil, space 12 inches apart.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Mist cuttings if propagating via division for best success.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Remove dead foliage in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells to keep soil moist 🌱
Cut back in early spring to encourage new growth
Divide every 2-3 years for vigorous clumping

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season
Never mow in late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderSoft-textured perennial bedWildlife-friendly garden edge

Companion Plants

Echinacea Rudbeckia Sedum Coreopsis Liatris

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass questions

What zones can Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass grow in?

Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass bloom?

Tall Tails Oriental 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 Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass need full sun?

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

Is Tall Tails Oriental Fountain Grass drought tolerant?

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