Purple fountain grass, scientifically known as Pennisetum setaceum, is a species that is considered invasive in California. However, thanks to selective plant breeding, there are now cultivated varieties of this grass that are seedless or do not produce viable seed. These cultivated varieties, such as Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’, ‘Fireworks’, and ‘Skyrocket’, are popular choices for gardeners and landscapers due to their attractive appearance and non-invasive nature.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that purple fountain grass can be a stunning addition to a garden or landscape. Its vibrant purple foliage adds a touch of color and drama, making it a focal point or accent plant. The feathery plumes that emerge in the summer bring a sense of movement and grace to the overall design.
One of the concerns with purple fountain grass is its potential to become invasive and spread rapidly. In its original form, Pennisetum setaceum can produce large quantities of viable seed, which can be carried by wind or animals and establish new populations in natural areas. This can disrupt native ecosystems and outcompete native plant species.
However, the cultivated varieties, such as ‘Rubrum’, ‘Fireworks’, and ‘Skyrocket’, have been specifically bred to address this issue. These varieties either produce no seed or produce seed that is not viable, greatly reducing the risk of invasiveness. This makes them a safer choice for gardeners and landscapers who want to enjoy the beauty of purple fountain grass without contributing to its spread in natural areas.
It is worth noting that even though the cultivated varieties are considered non-invasive, it is still important to be responsible when planting them. This means not allowing them to escape into natural areas and being mindful of their potential to reseed, although the risk is significantly lower compared to the original species. Regular monitoring and maintenance can help prevent any accidental spread.
When considering whether to include purple fountain grass in your garden or landscape, it is also important to assess the local conditions and climate. While this grass is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a variety of soil types, it is best suited for areas with full sun and well-drained soil. In regions with colder winters, it may be necessary to treat purple fountain grass as an annual or provide winter protection to ensure its survival.
Purple fountain grass, in its original form, is considered invasive in California. However, through selective plant breeding, cultivated varieties such as ‘Rubrum’, ‘Fireworks’, and ‘Skyrocket’ have been developed to be non-invasive and seedless. These varieties offer the same striking appearance and ornamental value, but with reduced risks of spreading and disrupting natural ecosystems. By choosing these cultivated varieties and practicing responsible gardening, we can enjoy the beauty of purple fountain grass without contributing to its invasiveness.
