Product Description
Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' PP12909 (30)ct Flat
Common Name: Grass-Ornamental, Oriental Fountain Grass
Uniform, upright clumps of gracefully arching deep green foliage erupt into soft rose-purple plumes from early summer until frost. Enjoy its subtle straw color in the winter. 'Karley Rose' PP12909 is quick to establish in the landscape and is quite drought tolerant.
Pennisetum prefers to be grown in rich loamy soil with good drainage and full sun or light shade. However, it will grow in rocky or sandy soil as long as it remains fairly moist. This resents having 'wet feet'. This clumping works most effectively in mass plantings, but also can be used as an accent plant in gardens and in containers.
Height: 36.0-40.0 Inches
Spread: 24.0-36.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 5,6,7,8,9
Flower Color: Purple-red shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer
Deer Resistant
Seasonal Interest: Fall Color
Growth Rate: Rapid
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting, Specimen, Focal Point
Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' is an ornamental grass boasting rosy-purple plumes and deep green foliage. It was discovered over 20 years ago by David Skwiot of Sunny Border Nurseries, Inc., among a group of Pennisetum orientale. He named this beautiful fountain grass cultivar after his daughter, Karley Rose. It is a warm-season grass, meaning it emerges in the spring and thrives in warmer temperatures.
Characteristics This cultivar has many desirable characteristics that make it a popular choice for gardeners:
- Rose-purple plumes: The most striking feature of 'Karley Rose' is its graceful, rosy-purple plumes. These soft, feathery plumes emerge in early summer and continue to bloom until frost, adding a touch of airy elegance to the garden. The plumes are particularly stunning when backlit by the sun, creating a warm, glowing effect.
- Deep green foliage: The foliage of 'Karley Rose' is a deep, rich green, growing in an upright, arching habit that adds structure and movement to the garden. As the seasons change, the foliage transitions to a warm golden-tan color in the fall, providing continued interest throughout the winter months.
- Hardiness: Unlike many other Oriental Fountain Grasses, 'Karley Rose' exhibits greater cold tolerance. It is winter hardy to USDA Zone 5a, making it a suitable choice for gardens in colder climates.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, 'Karley Rose' is remarkably drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering. This makes it a water-wise choice for gardens in drier regions.
- Size: 'Karley Rose' typically grows to a moderate size, reaching a height of 3 feet with blooms and 2.5 feet without blooms. Its spread ranges from 2 to 3 feet, making it suitable for a variety of garden spaces.
- Fast growth rate: This cultivar is known for its fast growth rate, quickly establishing itself in the garden. This is a desirable trait for gardeners who want to see quick results and enjoy the plant's mature form sooner.
How to Grow 'Karley Rose' is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips for successful cultivation:
- Sunlight: For optimal growth and flowering, plant 'Karley Rose' in a location that receives full sun. While it can tolerate some shade, flowering may be reduced in shadier conditions.
- Soil: 'Karley Rose' thrives in well-drained soil and is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay. However, it's best to avoid heavy clay soils, which can retain excess moisture and lead to root rot.
- Water: While establishing, keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. Once established, 'Karley Rose' is quite drought tolerant and requires less frequent watering.
- Fertilizer: To promote healthy growth, use a slow-release, medium-rate fertilizer. This will provide the necessary nutrients without the risk of over-fertilization.
- Pruning: To maintain its appearance and encourage new growth, cut back the old foliage to the ground in late winter before new shoots emerge. This will also help prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.
- Pests and Diseases: While generally pest-free, 'Karley Rose' can be susceptible to aphids, leaf spot, and spider mites. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatment can help prevent these issues from becoming severe.
- Overwintering in Containers: In colder climates, 'Karley Rose' grown in containers may require protection during the winter months. Overwintering in a cold frame with clear poly covering can help ensure its survival. It is important to avoid overwatering during this period.
Landscaping Uses The versatility of 'Karley Rose' makes it a valuable addition to various landscape designs:
- Specimen plant: With its attractive plumes and foliage, 'Karley Rose' can stand alone as a captivating specimen plant, drawing attention and adding a focal point to the garden.
- Borders: Its upright habit and moderate size make it an excellent choice for defining borders and adding structure to garden beds.
- Mass plantings: When planted in masses or sweeps, 'Karley Rose' creates a dramatic visual impact, especially when its plumes are backlit by the sun. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and texture to the landscape.
- Containers: 'Karley Rose' is well-suited for container gardening, adding a touch of elegance to patios, balconies, and entryways. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces.
- Cut flowers: The attractive plumes of 'Karley Rose' can be used as cut flowers in fresh or dried arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose' is a truly exceptional ornamental grass that offers a unique combination of beauty, versatility, and ease of care. Its long-lasting, rosy-purple plumes, deep green foliage, and hardiness make it a standout choice for gardens in a variety of climates. Whether used as a specimen plant, in borders, mass plantings, or containers, 'Karley Rose' adds texture, color, and movement to the landscape. Its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature further enhance its appeal, making it a favorite among gardeners of all skill levels. With its ability to thrive in diverse conditions and provide year-round interest, 'Karley Rose' is a reliable and rewarding addition to any garden.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 4.25 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
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Awesone service!
Plants arrived on time and as described. That is expected. What was unexpected was the incredible service and communicatione very step of the way!
