Types of Ornamental Grasses

Perennial Fountain Grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides

Zone: 5-9

Height: 12 inches to 3 feet

Fountain Grass is an upright-open, mound forming plant. This is an excellent ornamental grass. It should be used as an accent or specimen plant, in the middle of borders, and with other perennials. A mass planting produces a colorful display when in full bloom. Fountain Grass does well as a transitional grass between formal and natural areas. Flowering occurs in July and goes through the fall. Flower color changes from whitish purple to coppery purple and persists well into the winter. Fall foliage is yellow-gold. Fountain grass grows well in any fertile, moist, wet or well-drained soil. It prefers full sun to very light shade. Cultivars to look for include 'Cassian,' 'Hamelin,' 'Little Bunny' dwarf form, 'Little Honey' dwarf form, and 'Moudry' dark seed heads.

Additional Types of Grasses