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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (4) 1-gallons

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Pennisetum a. 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (4) 1-gallons

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (30)ct Flat

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Puppy Love' PP30973 (30)ct Flat

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' PP12909 (30)ct Flat

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Hameln' (30)ct Flat

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Pennisetum a. 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (30)ct Flat

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (4) 1-gallons

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (4) 1-gallonsProven Winners® PRAIRIE WINDS® CollectionCommon Name: Fountain Grass A brilliantly colored ornamental grass that's perfect...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (4) 1-gallons

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (4) 1-gallonsCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Fountain Grass Zone 5 to 9, Full sun Plants reach 4 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. This large...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (30)ct Flat

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Lemon Squeeze' PPAF (30)ct FlatProven Winners® PRAIRIE WINDS® CollectionCommon Name: Fountain Grass A brilliantly colored ornamental grass that's perfect for...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Puppy Love' PP30973 (30)ct Flat

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Puppy Love' PP30973 (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Fountain Grass, Ornamental Grass This seedling of 'Ginger Love' has the same intermediate height as its parent, but with...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' PP12909 (30)ct Flat

Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' PP12909 (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Oriental Fountain Grass Uniform, upright clumps of gracefully arching deep green foliage erupt into soft...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Hameln' (30)ct Flat

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Dwarf Fountain Grass Arching, upright, deep green foliage in summer, changes to orange-bronze in fall and eventually...

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Pennisetum

Pennisetum a. 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (30)ct Flat

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Desert Plains' PP20751 (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Grass-Ornamental, Fountain Grass This large fountain makes a great focal point in a sunny landscape. It is easy to grow...

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What are the characteristics of Pennisetum?

Pennisetum, commonly known as fountain grass, is a genus of plants in the grass family (Poaceae). They are native to tropical and warm temperate regions of the world.

Here are some of the characteristics of Pennisetum:

Habit: They can be annual or perennial herbs, with some species being woody. Their roots are generally fibrous.
Stems: The stems are generally round and hollow, with swollen, solid nodes.
Leaves: The leaves are alternate, two-ranked, and generally linear with parallel veins. The sheath is generally open, and the ligule is membranous or hairy at the blade base.
Inflorescence: The inflorescence is various, but it is generally made up of many spikelets. The spikelets have one to many florets, and the lemma is generally membranous, sometimes glume-like. The flower is generally bisexual and minute, with vestigial perianth and usually three stamens.
Seeds: The fruit is a caryopsis, which is a small, dry, one-seeded fruit that is characteristic of grasses.

Pennisetum is a large genus with over 130 species.

These grasses are popular ornamental plants due to their beautiful foliage and flowers. They are also used for erosion control and as a source of forage for livestock.

How do I plant Pennisetum?

There are two main ways to plant Pennisetum, either in the ground or in pots and containers. Here's a breakdown of the steps for each:

Planting Pennisetum in the Ground:

Timing: The best time to plant Pennisetum outdoors depends on whether you have a perennial or annual variety.
- For perennials, plant in spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in late summer/early fall at least 6-8 weeks before the first frost.
- Annuals can be planted in late spring or early summer when danger of frost has passed.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Pennisetum thrives in at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day.
Planting:
- Dig a hole 2-3 times wider and slightly deeper than the root ball of your Pennisetum.
- If your soil is heavy clay or poorly draining, amend the planting hole with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Gently remove the Pennisetum from its pot, teasing out any pot-bound roots.
- Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets.
- Water the plant thoroughly.

Planting Pennisetum in Pots and Containers:

Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix. You can use a commercial potting mix or create your own by combining potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Pot Size: Choose a pot that is at least one size larger than the container the Pennisetum came in.
Planting: Follow the same planting steps as for planting in the ground, making sure the pot has drainage holes.

Aftercare:

Water your Pennisetum regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting until it is established. The soil should be evenly moist but not soggy.
Apply fertilizer once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted according to package instructions.
Perennials may need to be divided every 2-3 years to prevent overcrowding.

What are varieties of Pennisetum?

There are over 130 species of Pennisetum, but some of the most common varieties grown as ornamental plants include:

Pennisetum alopecuroides (Chinese fountain grass): This is a popular perennial variety that forms clumps of upright, arching foliage. The feathery flower plumes emerge in mid to late summer and come in colors like pink, purple, and cream. It grows 2-4 feet tall and prefers full sun.
Pennisetum alopecuroides fountain grass
Pennisetum setaceum (Red fountain grass): This is a warm-season annual with burgundy-red foliage that adds a dramatic touch to gardens. The flowers are bottlebrush-shaped and come in shades of red and purple. It grows 2-3 feet tall and prefers full sun.
Pennisetum purpureum (Elephant grass): This is a tall, vigorous perennial grass that is grown as a forage crop for livestock in some areas. It can reach up to 10 feet tall and prefers full sun to partial shade. It's not typically grown for ornamental purposes due to its size.
Pennisetum orientale (Oriental fountain grass): This is a clump-forming perennial with arching green foliage and showy, feathery plumes that emerge in late summer. The plumes come in shades of pink, purple, and white. It grows 3-5 feet tall and prefers full sun.

These are just a few of the many varieties of Pennisetum available. With so many different options to choose from, there is sure to be a Pennisetum that is perfect for your garden.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a variety of Pennisetum:

Height: Pennisetum varieties come in a range of sizes, from dwarf varieties that only grow a foot or two tall to tall varieties that can reach up to 10 feet tall.
Color: The foliage and flowers of Pennisetum come in a variety of colors, including green, burgundy, red, purple, pink, and cream.
Bloom time: Some varieties of Pennisetum bloom in early summer, while others bloom in late summer or fall.

Hardiness: Pennisetum varieties vary in their hardiness. Some varieties are perennial in warm climates, while others are best grown as annual.

What are varieties of Pennisetum?

There are over 130 species of Pennisetum, but some of the most common varieties grown as ornamental plants include:

Pennisetum alopecuroides (Chinese fountain grass): This is a popular perennial variety that forms clumps of upright, arching foliage. The feathery flower plumes emerge in mid to late summer and come in colors like pink, purple, and cream. It grows 2-4 feet tall and prefers full sun.
Pennisetum setaceum (Red fountain grass): This is a warm-season annual with burgundy-red foliage that adds a dramatic touch to gardens. The flowers are bottlebrush-shaped and come in shades of red and purple. It grows 2-3 feet tall and prefers full sun.
Pennisetum purpureum (Elephant grass): This is a tall, vigorous perennial grass that is grown as a forage crop for livestock in some areas. It can reach up to 10 feet tall and prefers full sun to partial shade. It's not typically grown for ornamental purposes due to its size.
Pennisetum orientale (Oriental fountain grass): This is a clump-forming perennial with arching green foliage and showy, feathery plumes that emerge in late summer. The plumes come in shades of pink, purple, and white. It grows 3-5 feet tall and prefers full sun.

These are just a few of the many varieties of Pennisetum available. With so many different options to choose from, there is sure to be a Pennisetum that is perfect for your garden.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a variety of Pennisetum:

Height: Pennisetum varieties come in a range of sizes, from dwarf varieties that only grow a foot or two tall to tall varieties that can reach up to 10 feet tall.
Color: The foliage and flowers of Pennisetum come in a variety of colors, including green, burgundy, red, purple, pink, and cream.
Bloom time: Some varieties of Pennisetum bloom in early summer, while others bloom in late summer or fall.
Hardiness: Pennisetum varieties vary in their hardiness. Some varieties are perennial in warm climates, while others are best grown as annuals.

How Do I Care For a Pennisetum?

Pennisetum, also known as fountain grass, is a low-maintenance ornamental grass that adds beauty and texture to your garden. Here's a breakdown on how to care for them:

Lighting and Soil:

Sun: Pennisetum thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of sunlight a day.
Soil: They prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage before planting.

Watering:

Once established, Pennisetum is drought tolerant, but they still appreciate regular watering during hot, dry spells.
Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again.
Newly planted Pennisetum or those grown in containers will need more frequent watering until established.

Fertilizing:

Pennisetum generally doesn't require heavy feeding.
You can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, diluted according to package instructions.
Alternatively, you can mulch around the base of the plant with a layer of compost in spring to replenish nutrients.

Pruning:

Pruning is not strictly necessary, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth.
In late fall or early spring, before new growth emerges, cut back the dead foliage to about 6-8 inches from the ground.

Other Care:

Established Pennisetum are generally pest and disease resistant.
However, they may occasionally be susceptible to fungal diseases in poorly drained soils.
To avoid this, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
Every 2-3 years, perennials may need to be divided to prevent overcrowding.

Here are some additional tips:

Choose a variety of Pennisetum that is suitable for your climate zone.
If you live in a cold climate where winters are harsh, some Pennisetum varieties may not survive as perennials. You can grow them as annuals or protect them over winter with mulch.
Deadheading, or removing spent flower plumes, can encourage additional blooms throughout the season.

With a little care, your Pennisetum will thrive and provide your garden with beauty and interest for years to come.

Does Pennisetum attract pollinators?

While Pennisetum itself isn't particularly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies due to a lack of nectar and pollen-rich flowers, they can still play a supporting role in a pollinator garden. Here's the breakdown:

Limited pollinator attraction:

Pennisetum flowers are wind-pollinated, meaning they rely on wind to transfer pollen between flowers, not insects.
Their flowers are often inconspicuous and lack the vibrant colors or strong scents that typically attract pollinators.

Supporting role in a pollinator garden:

Although they don't directly provide nectar and pollen, Pennisetum's feathery plumes can provide shelter for beneficial insects like butterflies and ladybugs.
These insects may be attracted to other flowering plants in your garden and use the Pennisetum for protection from predators or harsh weather conditions.
The hollow stems of Pennisetum can also provide nesting sites for some solitary bee species.

Creating a pollinator-friendly garden:

If your goal is to attract a variety of pollinators, it's best to plant Pennisetum alongside other flowering plants that are known to be pollinator magnets. Here are some good companions:

Coneflowers (Echinacea): Provide long-lasting blooms with colorful petals and central cones full of pollen.
Zinnias: Offer a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes with abundant pollen.
Lavender: Known for its fragrant blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Milkweed: Essential for Monarch butterflies as their sole food source for caterpillars.

By incorporating a variety of flowering plants with different bloom times, you can create a continuous food source for pollinators throughout the growing season. Pennisetum can add textural interest and provide incidental benefits for these helpful insects.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Pennisetum?

Pennisetum, while generally low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases, can still be susceptible to a few issues. Here are some common problems to watch out for:

Diseases:

Fungal diseases: These can occur in poorly drained soils or with excessive moisture. Examples include rust, leaf spot, and smut.
Signs to watch for: Discolored or distorted leaves, powdery mildew, or stunted growth.
Prevention: Ensure good drainage by amending soil with organic matter and avoid overwatering.

Pests:

Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can infest the stems and leaves.
Signs to watch for: Curled or stunted leaves, sticky honeydew on foliage, and presence of aphids themselves.
Treatment: For minor infestations, a strong spray of water can knock them off. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for heavier infestations.
Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects with a cottony white appearance can also suck sap from the plant.
Signs to watch for: Similar to aphids, with the addition of the cottony white mealybugs on leaves and stems.
Treatment: Treat similarly to aphids, using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Other Issues:

Grubs: These are the larvae of beetles that can chew on the roots of Pennisetum.
Signs to watch for: Brown patches in the lawn or stunted growth of the plant.
Treatment: Encourage beneficial nematodes in the soil which can help control grub populations. In severe cases, insecticidal treatments may be necessary.

Here are some additional tips for preventing pest and disease problems:

Purchase healthy plants: Inspect plants before buying to ensure they are free of pests and diseases.
Provide good air circulation: Don't overcrowd plants, as good air circulation helps prevent moisture buildup and fungal diseases.
Remove debris: Clean up fallen leaves and plant debris around the base of the plant to reduce hiding places for pests.
Monitor regularly: Regularly inspect your Pennisetum for signs of pests or diseases and address them promptly to prevent them from spreading.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Pennisetum healthy and looking its best.

Can I Use Pennisetum in Floral Arrangements?

Yes, you can use Pennisetum, also known as fountain grass, in floral arrangements! Here's why it can be a great addition:

Texture and movement: The feathery plumes of Pennisetum add a light, airy texture and a sense of movement to arrangements. They can help to soften the look of other, more rigid flowers.
Color and variety: Pennisetum comes in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, cream, and red. This allows you to add pops of color or complement the colors of other flowers in the arrangement.
Long-lasting: When dried, Pennisetum retains its color and shape well, making it a good choice for dried flower arrangements.

Here are some things to consider when using Pennisetum in floral arrangements:

Fresh vs. dried: Fresh Pennisetum can be used in arrangements, but it will not last as long as dried Pennisetum. Dried Pennisetum is more widely available and easier to work with.
Size and scale: Choose Pennisetum plumes that are in proportion to the other flowers in the arrangement.
Shape and form: Consider how the shape of the Pennisetum plumes will complement the overall design of the arrangement.

Here are some tips for using Pennisetum in floral arrangements:

Fresh Pennisetum: Cut the plumes when they are mature but still soft and fluffy. Condition the stems in water for a few hours before using them in an arrangement.
Dried Pennisetum: You can purchase dried Pennisetum from craft stores or online retailers. You can also dry your own Pennisetum by hanging the plumes upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place for a few weeks.
Adding Pennisetum to arrangements: Pennisetum can be used as a filler flower or a focal flower. It can also be used to create a sense of line and movement in the arrangement.

With a little creativity, you can use Pennisetum to create beautiful and interesting floral arrangements.

Is Pennisetum Invasive?

Yes, some varieties of Pennisetum can be invasive depending on the specific region. Here's a breakdown:

Invasive potential: Pennisetum spreads readily through wind-dispersed seeds and can become aggressive in some areas, outcompeting native plants and disrupting natural ecosystems.
Particularly invasive varieties:
- Pennisetum setaceum (Red fountain grass)
- Pennisetum alopecuroides (Chinese fountain grass) are two commonly grown varieties that can be invasive in certain regions.
Regions susceptible to invasion: These grasses can be problematic in places like:
- Southwestern United States (California, Arizona)
- Pacific Islands
- Australia
- Several other warm temperate and tropical regions

Why it matters: Invasive plants can cause serious problems by displacing native plants, altering fire regimes, and reducing biodiversity.

Before planting Pennisetum:

Check with local resources: It's important to check with your local authorities or gardening resources to see if any varieties of Pennisetum are listed as invasive in your area.
Consider alternatives: If Pennisetum is invasive in your region, there are many other ornamental grasses that you can choose from that are not invasive.

Here are some resources that can help you determine if Pennisetum is invasive in your area:

The National Invasive Species Information Center (USDA National Invasive Species Information Center)
The California Invasive Plant Council (California Invasive Plant Council)
Your local Cooperative Extension Service (United States Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service!

By being informed about the invasive potential of Pennisetum, you can make responsible choices about planting them in your garden.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Pennisetum?

The best time to propagate Pennisetum depends on the method you choose:

Propagation by Division:

This is the most common method for perennial Pennisetum varieties.
The ideal time for division is in early spring after the danger of frost has passed.
This allows the new divisions to establish themselves before the hot summer months.

Propagation by Seed:

Pennisetum seeds can be slow to germinate and require warm soil temperatures.
Start seeds indoors about two months before the last frost in your area.
Once the seedlings are established and the danger of frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors.

Here's a quick table summarizing the propagation methods and timing:

Propagation Method	Best Timing
Division	Early Spring
Seed	Indoors: 2 months before last frost; Outdoors: After danger of frost has passed

Additional Considerations:

Some regions with very mild winters may be able to propagate Pennisetum by division in late fall as well, at least 6-8 weeks before the first frost.

Always check the specific variety of Pennisetum you have for any particular propagation recommendations.

What are the benefits of planting Pennisetum?

Here are some of the benefits of planting Pennisetum in your garden:

Ornamental value: Pennisetum comes in a variety of colors, textures, and heights, making them a versatile addition to landscapes. Their graceful, arching foliage and feathery flower plumes add movement and interest throughout the season.
Low maintenance: Once established, Pennisetum are generally drought tolerant and require minimal care. They are not heavy feeders and don't require frequent watering or fertilizing.
Attracts wildlife (indirectly): While Pennisetum flowers aren't particularly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, their feathery plumes can provide shelter for beneficial insects like ladybugs and butterflies. These insects may be attracted to other flowering plants in your garden and use the Pennisetum for protection.
Erosion control: The fibrous root system of Pennisetum can help to hold soil in place, preventing erosion on slopes or hills.
Adaptability: Pennisetum varieties come in a range of sizes and hardiness zones. With some research, you can find a variety that will thrive in your climate.

Here are some additional benefits depending on the variety you choose:

Certain varieties can be good cut flowers: Dried Pennisetum retains its color and shape well, making it a great choice for dried flower arrangements.
Some Pennisetum varieties are deer resistant: This can be a benefit if deer are a problem in your area.

Overall, Pennisetum is a low-maintenance and versatile ornamental grass that can add beauty, texture, and ecological benefits to your garden. Just be sure to choose a variety that is not invasive in your region.

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Pennisetum

What are the characteristics of Pennisetum?

How do I plant Pennisetum?

What are varieties of Pennisetum?

What are varieties of Pennisetum?

How Do I Care For a Pennisetum?

Does Pennisetum attract pollinators?

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Pennisetum?

Can I Use Pennisetum in Floral Arrangements?

Is Pennisetum Invasive?

When Is The Best Time To propagate Pennisetum?

What are the benefits of planting Pennisetum?