Crimson Fountaingrass: A Striking but Controversial Ornamental Grass
If you’ve ever admired those gorgeous burgundy plumes swaying gracefully in a neighbor’s garden, you’ve probably encountered crimson fountaingrass (Pennisetum setaceum). This eye-catching perennial grass has won hearts with its fountain-like form and stunning reddish-purple seed heads, but there’s more to this beauty than meets the eye.
What is Crimson Fountaingrass?
Crimson fountaingrass is a bunch-forming perennial grass that creates an elegant, arching display in the landscape. Also known by its scientific name Pennisetum setaceum, this ornamental grass typically reaches about 3.5 feet in height with fine-textured green foliage that provides a lovely backdrop for its showy plumes.
The plant produces purple fruit and seeds during summer through fall, creating those Instagram-worthy moments gardeners love. With a moderate growth rate and erect, fountain-shaped form, it’s easy to see why this grass became popular in landscaping.
The Beautiful Stranger in Your Garden
Here’s where things get interesting: crimson fountaingrass isn’t actually native to North America. Originally from Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, this grass has made itself quite at home across multiple U.S. states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oregon, and Tennessee. It’s what botanists call a naturalized species – one that reproduces on its own in the wild without human intervention.
Growing Crimson Fountaingrass: The Practical Side
If you’re considering adding this grass to your landscape, here’s what you need to know about keeping it happy:
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun (shade intolerant)
- Soil: Well-draining, coarse to medium-textured soils
- Water: Low moisture needs once established (drought tolerant)
- pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (6.0-7.5)
- Temperature: Hardy to about 17°F, needs at least 280 frost-free days
USDA Hardiness Zones
Crimson fountaingrass thrives in USDA zones 8-11. In cooler climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors.
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Space plants according to mature size (typically 3-4 feet apart)
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce to occasional deep watering
- Cut back to 6 inches in late winter before new growth begins
- Fertilize lightly in spring if desired
- Remove spent flower heads to prevent unwanted spread
The Garden Design Perspective
Crimson fountaingrass shines in contemporary and Mediterranean-style gardens. Its architectural form makes it an excellent specimen plant or accent in xeriscapes and low-water landscapes. The contrast between its fine foliage and bold plumes adds textural interest that landscape designers love.
However, this grass offers limited benefits to local wildlife and pollinators compared to native alternatives. As a wind-pollinated species, it doesn’t provide the nectar sources that native flowering plants offer to butterflies and bees.
Consider Native Alternatives
While crimson fountaingrass can be a stunning addition to the right garden, consider exploring native ornamental grasses that provide similar aesthetic appeal while supporting local ecosystems. Many regions have beautiful native bunch grasses that offer comparable fountain-like forms and interesting seed heads, plus they’re perfectly adapted to local growing conditions.
The Bottom Line
Crimson fountaingrass is undeniably beautiful and relatively easy to grow in the right conditions. If you choose to plant it, be mindful of its non-native status and potential to self-seed. Regular deadheading can help prevent unwanted spread, and consider it as part of a diverse landscape that also includes native plants to support local wildlife.
Remember, the best gardens are those that balance aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility – and there’s beauty to be found in both approaches!
