Pennisetum species

Planting and care

Fountain grasses and other Pennisetum members can be sown either indoors or outdoors. If sowing outdoors then do so in the first few months of spring and lightly cover the seeds. Fountain grasses like to grow in sunny parts of the garden; ideally the soil should be moist, well drained, and fertile.
If first growing indoors then start about 7 or 8 weeks in advance. The Fountain grass seeds should take about two to four weeks to germinate at 21 degrees Centigrade. Transplant the young seedlings into the garden about 45 to 90 cm apart about a week before the last frost of spring is expected.

Caring for Pennisetum species

• Fountain grasses and other Pennisetum plants like to grow in moist soil so water regularly. In cold area add mulch in the winter to protect the roots. If growing perennial Pennisetum species it is best to cut the plants down to the ground just after the last frost of spring to help with vigorous new growth. If you require more Fountain Grass plants then they can be propagated by division; this should be done in the spring.

Typical uses of Pennisetum species

Special features: Specimen, group or mass. Attractive foliage and flower spikes of this ornamental grass provide excellent texture, color and contrast to borders, foundations and open areas.

Ornamental use: The plant is used for ornamental purpose.

References

• http://www.gardenershq.com/Pennisetum-Fountain-Grass.php http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c257