Purple Fountain Grass Care: How to Grow Ornamental Grasses

Purple fountain grass (also known as rose fountain grass, crimson fountain grass, Cenchrus setaceus, or Pennisetum setaceum) is a tropical ornamental grass that will add bright color to your garden. The tall grass variety is a drought-tolerant plant known for its maroon to purplish grass blades and feather-like plumes (or seed heads) that range from rose and burgundy to red.

This perennial grass is a warm-season grass, and the purple foliage will grow year-round in warmer climates, blooming well into late summer and fall. In colder climates, you should plant purple fountain grass in early spring and grow the plant as an annual, as it will not survive cold winters. The rapid growth rate of the grass ensures at least two seasons of color, even for gardeners in colder climates.

The brightly colored plumes (which resemble foxtails) make purple fountain grass a great focal point in gardens. You can use the plumes as cut flowers or dry the plumes to use in flower arrangements.

Purple fountain grass—and most other fountain grasses—is a low-maintenance plant, making it a popular choice for home landscaping. Follow a few guidelines in the following areas to foster vibrant, full foliage:

• Climate: Grow purple fountain grass in USDA Hardiness Zones 2–11. In zones with freezing winter temperatures, the plant will grow from early spring to late fall. The growing season is much longer in zones with mild to warm winters. In USDA zones 9–11, purple fountain grass will start growing in late spring, and its bloom time corresponds to hot summer temperatures.
• Light: Purple fountain grass grows best in full sunlight. The plant can tolerate light shade, but the color may not be as vibrant as if it grew in full sun.
• Pruning: If you prune the grass in late winter, this will encourage new growth in early spring.
• Soil: The hearty plant will grow in most soil types but does best in well-drained, enriched soil.
• Water: Purple fountain grass should receive water only when the soil is dry. In hot climates, that might be once or twice a week. In moderate climates, you might need to water only every ten days or so.

Gardeners can choose from many different types of fountain grass, as these warm-season grasses come in a range of shades and sizes. Choose the one you like best or mix a few different types in your garden. All are deer-resistant. Here are a few popular fountain grass plants:

1. 1. Dwarf fountain grass: This variety—botanical name Pennisetum alopecuroides—grows to only two to three feet high. Its leaves are green and the plumes are taupe-colored but turn deep golden in the fall.
2. 2. Pennisetum setaceum 'Fireworks': This cultivar can be a vibrant addition to gardens. The leaves are variegated, creating stripes of white, green, and burgundy foliage.
3. 3. Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’: Also called red fountain grass, this plant grows to about five feet tall and features pink to purple plumes that sprout from deep purple foliage. Plant this variety in warm, dry climates.

Grow your own garden with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the MasterClass Annual Membership and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community—and the world—a better place.