When it comes to fountain grass, there are several types that you can choose from to add beauty to your garden or landscaping. Each type has its own unique characteristics and growth habits, so it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.
1. Pennisetum setaceum: This is the most common type of fountain grass and is often referred to as purple fountain grass. It has long, arching purple or burgundy-colored leaves that create a graceful fountain-like effect. In late summer, it produces feathery plumes that can range in color from purple to white. This variety is known for its ability to tolerate heat and drought.
2. Pennisetum alopecuroides: Also known as Chinese fountain grass, this variety is native to Asia. It features dense, tufted clumps of narrow green leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall. In late summer, it produces bottlebrush-like flower spikes that can be either pink or white. This type of fountain grass is more tolerant of cold weather and can survive in a variety of soil types.
3. Pennisetum orientale: Oriental fountain grass is a dwarf variety that reaches a height of only 12-18 inches. It has narrow, arching leaves that are green in color and turn yellow in the fall. In late summer, it produces fluffy, pinkish-white flower spikes that add a touch of elegance to any garden. This type of fountain grass is well-suited for borders or containers.
4. Pennisetum thunbergii: This variety, also known as dwarf fountain grass, is a compact plant that reaches a height of about 2-3 feet. It has narrow, green leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall. In late summer, it produces bottlebrush-like flower spikes that can range in color from pink to purple. This type of fountain grass is versatile and can be used in borders, containers, or as a ground cover.
5. Pennisetum purpureum: This type of fountain grass is commonly known as elephant grass or Napier grass. It is a tall, fast-growing grass that can reach heights of up to 10 feet. It has wide, coarse leaves that are green in color and produces large, feathery flower spikes in late summer. This variety is often used for erosion control or as a fodder crop for livestock.
It’s important to note that while fountain grass can add beauty to your garden or landscaping, it can also have negative impacts on the environment. In some regions, certain varieties of fountain grass have become invasive and can crowd out native plants. Additionally, the dried foliage of fountain grass can be highly flammable and contribute to the spread of wildfires. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the potential risks and benefits of planting fountain grass in your specific area.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have encountered situations where fountain grass was initially planted for its aesthetic appeal but ended up causing issues. For example, in a client’s garden, the purple fountain grass rapidly spread and outcompeted the surrounding native plants, leading to a loss of biodiversity. It required significant effort and resources to remove and control its growth. This experience highlights the importance of choosing the right type of fountain grass and considering its potential impact on the local ecosystem before planting.
