Plant of the Week
Pennisetum alopecuroides – Fountain Grass
September is the time for grasses to shine. The late summer sun is low in the sky and highlights the flowers as the sun rises and sets in the evening. Fountain grass is a perennial, clump forming, grass which is available as a straight species or by cultivar. New cultivars feature shorter stature and different color flowers. There are many to choose from and they range in size from 12” to 3' tall. You may find 'Cassian',' 'Hamelin,' 'Little Bunny' dwarf form, 'Little Honey' dwarf form, and 'Moudry' with dark seed heads, to name just a few.Fountain grass starts to bloom in July and will continue through September turning yellow as the cold temperatures arrive. The flowers or inflorescence will last through the fall and into the winter providing interest in the garden as the perennials decline.
Fountain grass can be used as a specimen plant or in drifts. It grows in full sun to partial shade in well drained soil. I have found that it is not too fussy about soil type. Fountain grass brings a new element of texture to the perennial, shrub border, or even foundation planting. Plant a few this fall and enjoy them for seasons to come.
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