Fireworks Fountain Grass
Pennisetum setaceum 'Fireworks'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Africa and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Pennisetum setaceum is a tender perennial fountain grass grown for its graceful, arching form and feathery flower plumes. It is often treated as an annual in colder climates. The 'Fireworks' cultivar is most noted for its striking variegated foliage, featuring a mix of pink, burgundy, and green stripes. The color intensifies in full sun. It produces fuzzy, purplish-pink flower plumes in late summer.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
- Place in full sun for best growth
- Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer
- Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead foliage in late winter
- Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t fertilize excessively
- Never cut back in late fall, wait until early spring
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Fireworks Fountain Grass questions
What zones can Fireworks Fountain Grass grow in?
Fireworks 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 Fireworks Fountain Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Fireworks Fountain Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Fireworks Fountain Grass bloom?
Fireworks Fountain Grass typically blooms in late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fireworks Fountain Grass need full sun?
Fireworks Fountain Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Fireworks Fountain Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fireworks 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
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Dwarf Fountain Grass 'Piglet'
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Piglet'
Keep exploring
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Grow Fireworks 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.
