How to Grow Fountain Grass

To grow fountain grass, plant it from nursery transplants or seeds sown directly outdoors after the last expected frost. If growing from seed, water the soil frequently to keep it evenly moist. Plant fountain grass in an area that gets full sun for best results, although it can tolerate partial shade.

Does Fountain grass come back every year?
Does Fountain grass spread?
How do you maintain fountain grass?
Does Fountain grass die winter?
What happens if you don't Cut back ornamental grasses?
Does purple fountain grass need full sun?
Should you cut back fountain grass?
Does Fountain grass have deep roots?
Is fountain grass toxic to dogs?
Does Fountain grass grow quickly?
Does purple fountain grass grow fast?
How do you rejuvenate ornamental grass?

Does Fountain grass come back every year?

About Purple Fountain Grass

While purple fountain grass is known as a perennial, it is actually considered a tender perennial. This ornamental grass cannot survive cold winters and is hardy only in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9 and warmer (though in Zones 7-8 it can sometimes reappear given adequate winter protection).

Does Fountain grass spread?

Fountain grass seeds may disperse readily from existing populations via wind, animals, and automobiles. Repeated introductions through landscape plantings are important in the spread of other invasive plants in California, and are likely important in range expansion of fountain grass.

How do you maintain fountain grass?

Established plants do not need regular watering, except during periods of drought. Fountain grass does well in nearly any type of soil; however, for greater results, fountain grass should be planted in fertile, well-drained soil. Fountain grass enjoys full sun but tolerates some light shade.

Does Fountain grass die winter?

You can bring fountain grass plants inside and save them in the basement, garage, or other semi-cool area. As long as there are no freezing temperatures and moderate light, the plant will survive winter.

What happens if you don't Cut back ornamental grasses?

This is for emergencies only, though. They don't appreciate harsh pruning and this could weaken or even kill them if you repeat it annually. The majority of commonly grown ornamental grasses, however, are deciduous. Their foliage dies and turns brown in the fall, but often remains standing.

Does purple fountain grass need full sun?

Light. Purple fountain grass will tolerate some light shade, but it prefers to be planted in full sunlight.

Should you cut back fountain grass?

The best time when to trim fountain grass back is in the late winter or early spring. The exact timing is not as important as just making sure that you prune fountain grass back before it starts actively growing. You want to avoid doing fountain grass pruning in the fall, as the plant has not yet died back all the way.

Does Fountain grass have deep roots?

Large ornamental grass plants may have roots that grow 12 to 18 inches deep. ... Clumping grasses include perennial fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides), purple moor grass (Molinia litorialis) and purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum Rubrum).

Is fountain grass toxic to dogs?

Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum).

Fountain grasses are considered nontoxic to pets and add height and beautiful blooms to flower gardens. You can feel at ease with these plants in your yard.

Does Fountain grass grow quickly?

Landscaping with Purple Fountain Grass

One of the showiest is purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'), popular for its reddish arching leaves and colorful flowers. Fast growing, purple fountain grass makes a fine hedge, specimen,…

Does purple fountain grass grow fast?

Fast growing, purple fountain grass makes a fine hedge, specimen, or focal point at the back of a garden.

How do you rejuvenate ornamental grass?

Fertilize the grass after dividing or cutting back in spring. Apply 1/4 cup of a 10-10-10 fertilizer per plant. Sprinkle the fertilizer in a ring around the grass, at least six inches out from the base of the grass clump. Water thoroughly after fertilizing so the nutrients leech into the root zone.