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Fountain Grass

Pennisetum

The Tactile Fountain: Pennisetum alopecuroides (Fountain Grass)


The Snapshot

  • Common Name: Fountain Grass, Chinese Pennisetum

  • Scientific Name: Pennisetum alopecuroides

  • Hardiness: Zones 5 – 9 (Very hardy in NJ; 'Rubrum' is an annual exception).

  • The "Vibe": Soft, whimsical, and mounded; the "Fuzzy Ribbon" of the summer garden.

Why It’s a Jersey "Curb Appeal" Star

  • The "Bunny Tail" Plumes: Starting in late July and August, the grass produces fuzzy, cylindrical flower spikes that look like soft bottle-brushes or rabbit tails. They catch the dew in the morning and look magical.

  • The Perfect Mound: Unlike grasses that grow straight up, Pennisetum grows in a perfect, symmetrical fountain shape. It’s the "neat and tidy" choice for formal or contemporary NJ yards.

  • Fall Color Glow: In October, the bright green foliage often turns a warm, golden-tan or almond-orange before going dormant for the winter.

  • Salt & Heat Resilient: It handles the humidity of a Jersey July and the salt spray of the Atlantic Coast with ease.

Stories from the Garden

"I have a row of 'Hameln' Fountain Grass along my driveway in Marlton. They are so reliable! Every August, they get those cute little fuzzy plumes, and they stay looking great until the first heavy snow. I love the way they move in the wind—it makes the whole front yard feel more 'alive.' I just cut them back in the spring and they pop right back up every year."

— Chris T., Zone 7 Gardener (Marlton, NJ)


Designer Tips: Where to Plant

  • The "Soft Border" Edging: Plant 'Hameln' 2 feet apart along a curved walkway. The arching leaves soften the hard edge of the concrete or pavers.

  • The Modern Massing: Plant a large "sea" of Fountain Grass on a sunny slope. The repetitive mounded shapes look incredibly professional and high-end.

  • The "Petting Zoo" Garden: Place them near a patio or bench where people (and kids!) can reach out and touch the soft, fuzzy plumes.

Designer Pro-Tip: The "Red" Warning. You will often see the gorgeous 'Rubrum' (Purple Fountain Grass) in NJ garden centers. Warning: This variety is NOT hardy in New Jersey. It is an annual and will die with the first frost. Make sure your Wix customers know the difference so they aren't disappointed next spring!

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