Green Fountain Grass

Green Fountain Grass typically refers to varieties of Pennisetum alopecuroides or Pennisetum setaceum that have green foliage. These ornamental grasses are popular for their graceful, arching form and distinctive bottlebrush-like flower plumes.

Here's a breakdown of their characteristics and care:

Key Characteristics:

• Appearance: They form dense, clump-forming mounds of narrow, medium to deep green leaves. The foliage often turns golden yellow in the fall before fading to beige in late fall and usually remains attractive throughout winter.
• Flowers: Showy, silvery to pinkish-white (or sometimes purple or red, depending on the cultivar) bristly, bottle brush-like flower spikes emerge in late summer, arching outward like water from a fountain. These plumes turn brownish as seeds form and can persist until late fall or early winter.
• Size: The species Pennisetum alopecuroides can reach 2.5-5 feet tall with an equal spread. However, many cultivars are available, ranging from 1-4 feet in height. For example, 'Little Bunny' is a miniature variety growing to 16-20 inches tall.
• Growth Cycle: They are warm-season grasses, meaning they begin growing when the ground warms up in spring.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, though some varieties of Pennisetum setaceum may be treated as annuals in colder climates (below Zone 9).

Growing Conditions & Care:

• Sunlight: Green fountain grass thrives in full sun but can tolerate part shade. However, too much shade may result in fewer flowers.
• Soil: They are adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils, including clay, loam, and sand. They prefer a moderately acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Good drainage is crucial, as they don't like constantly soggy or wet soil, which can lead to root rot.
• Watering: Once established, fountain grass is quite drought-tolerant. During the first growing season, keep the soil consistently moist. For established plants, water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry, especially during hot or dry spells. Plants in containers will need more frequent watering.
• Fertilizing: They are light feeders and generally require little to no supplemental fertilizer. An annual application of organic compost around the base in spring is usually sufficient.
• Pruning: Cut back the foliage to the ground (about 4-6 inches above soil level) in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. This can be easily done by gathering the foliage and tying it into a bunch before cutting.
• Maintenance: Generally low maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases.
• Propagation: Can be grown from seed (though cultivars may not come true from seed) or propagated by division in spring. Dividing clumps every few years can help rejuvenate them if the center starts to die out.

Uses in the Landscape:

Green fountain grass is highly versatile and can be used in various garden settings:

• Specimen or Mass Plantings: Excellent as a focal point or planted in groups for a dramatic effect.
• Borders and Foundations: Provides texture, color, and contrast in garden beds and around buildings.
• Containers: Smaller varieties like 'Little Bunny' are perfect for pots and containers.
• Rock Gardens: Adds a soft, flowing element to rocky landscapes.
• Water Gardens: Grows well in moist locations near ponds or streams, with its graceful form often reflected in the water.
• Erosion Control: Suitable for use on slopes.