Red Fountain Grass
ExplorePlants
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
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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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
Ability
Desert Drinker
Red Fountain Grass can thrive in dry, sandy soils thanks to its efficient root system that helps it find and store water.
Ability
Seed Spreader
This grass produces abundant, fluffy seeds that are easily carried by the wind, helping it spread and colonize new areas.
Ability
Rapid Regrowth
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
- 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
Ornamental plants are cultivated primarily for their aesthetic appeal, enhancing landscapes and gardens with their attractive foliage, flowers, or form.
Grass-Like
Grass-like plants are herbaceous plants that visually resemble true grasses, typically having long, narrow leaves.
Summer Blooming
Summer blooming plants produce their flowers during the summer season, often providing vibrant color when many other plants have finished.
Drought Tolerant
Drought-tolerant plants can survive and flourish in conditions with limited water availability.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Explore with care and ask an adult if you’re unsure what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Red Fountain Grass?
60-150 cm
How wide does Red Fountain Grass spread?
60-120 cm
How big are the flowers on Red Fountain Grass?
15-30 cm
When does Red Fountain Grass bloom?
Summer to Fall
Is Red Fountain Grass edible?
No
Is Red Fountain Grass toxic?
None
What is Red Fountain Grass's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is Red Fountain Grass pollinated?
Wind
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