Red Head Fountain Grass

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

2 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Pennisetum alopecuroides Red Head, commonly known as Red Head Fountain Grass, is a graceful ornamental grass that fits into any garden style. It has narrow, arching green leaves that form a rounded form. The blooms are smoky-purple and have a bottlebrush shape. This grass blooms in mid to late summer, earlier than most warm-season grasses. The flowers turn buff as they dry and are excellent in cut-flower arrangements. In the fall, the leaves will take on golden and orange shades. 

This grass forms a large mound that spreads to 2 – 3 feet wide. It is low maintenance and will develop drought tolerance. It is also pest, deer, and disease resistant. Red Head Fountain Grass is a versatile grass and looks exceptional in prairie, meadow, wildlife, and pollinator gardens. It can also be grown in containers for a unique porch or patio display.  

Red Head Fountain Grass Care

Red Head performs best in full sun, but will tolerate part shade. It adapts easily to sand, clay, alkaline, and acidic soils. When planting, set crowns above the soil surface to prevent crown rot. This grass appreciates regular water over the summer and will develop drought tolerance over time. Fertilize in the spring with a general-purpose formula.

Cut this grass to the ground in late winter or early spring to make room for new growth. It has no special requirements for winter care.

Red Head Fountain Grass Spacing

When planting in groups, space these plants approximately 2 feet apart on center. This grass can also be grown in a large weather-proof container at least 20 inches in diameter with excellent drainage.