Dwarf Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Little Bunny'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia, Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Little Bunny' is a dense, clump-forming perennial grass with fine, arching foliage and soft, fluffy flower heads that resemble small bunny tails, typically in shades of cream or pale pink. This cultivar is prized for its compact size and ornamental appeal, making it an excellent choice for small gardens and container planting while maintaining attractive, feathery flower plumes.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep moist for 2 weeks
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
- Cut back to 4 inches in late winter for fresh growth
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best results
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Divide every few years to maintain vigor
- Cut back in late winter to encourage new growth
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
- Forget to mulch, leading to weed invasion ❌
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf Fountain Grass questions
What zones can Dwarf Fountain Grass grow in?
Dwarf Fountain Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dwarf Fountain Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Dwarf Fountain Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dwarf Fountain Grass bloom?
Dwarf Fountain Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dwarf Fountain Grass need full sun?
Dwarf Fountain Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dwarf Fountain Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf Fountain Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Pennisetum to compare
Dwarf Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'
Karley Rose Fountain Grass
Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose'
Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Pauls Giant'
Ginger Love Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Ginger Love'
Dwarf Fountain Grass 'Piglet'
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Piglet'
Oriental Fountain Grass
Pennisetum orientale
Keep exploring
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Grow Dwarf Fountain Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
