Red Fountain Grass

Pennisetum setaceum

Red Fountain Grass is a decorative grass that has reddish-purple plumes. It adds a splash of color to gardens!

Habitat: Gardens and sunny areas

Appearance

The Red Fountain Grass has graceful, arching clumps of narrow, reddish-purple leaves. Its most striking feature is the soft, bottlebrush-like flower plumes that emerge in summer, often in shades of pink, burgundy, or reddish-brown, swaying gently. These feathery plumes stand out vividly against its foliage, giving it a distinctive 'fountain' shape.

KingdomPlantaePhylumMagnoliophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderPoalesFamilyPoaceaeGenusPennisetum

Red Fountain Grass

Interesting facts

Despite its beauty, it's considered an invasive weed in many warm regions across the globe!

It earned its name because its arching leaves and plumes resemble a watery fountain!

Its seeds are so tiny, one plant can produce thousands, ready to drift away on the breeze!

Originally from North Africa, it now grows on every continent except icy Antarctica!

Special abilities

Red Fountain Grass can thrive in dry, sandy soils thanks to its efficient root system that helps it find and store water.

This grass produces abundant, fluffy seeds that are easily carried by the wind, helping it spread and colonize new areas.

Red Fountain Grass can quickly regrow after disturbances like fire, using stored energy to sprout fresh shoots.

Measurements & details

Height: 60-150 cm
Spread: 60-120 cm
Flower Size: 15-30 cm
Bloom Season: Summer to Fall
Is Edible: No
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

eats

Mourning Dove

Zenaida macroura

Doves eat its plentiful seeds.

eats

House Mouse

Mus musculus

Mice consume its seeds, aiding dispersal.

shelters

Green Anole

Anolis carolinensis

Small lizards hide within its dense leaves.

Traits

Ornamental

These lovely plants are grown simply because they are so beautiful to look at, adding splashes of color and interesting shapes to any garden or landscape.

Grass-Like

These plants have long, slender leaves and often grow in clumps, looking very similar to grasses, even if they're not true grasses themselves. They bring a delicate texture to the landscape!

Summer Blooming

Enjoy the sunny days with these vibrant plants that show off their stunning flowers all through the warmest months, adding color to the long summer days.

Drought Tolerant

These clever plants are superstars at saving water, thriving even when it's dry and sunny with very little rain. They're nature's resourceful friends!