Purple Fountain Grass: A Guide to Planting, Care, and Propagation
Description and Characteristics
Purple fountain grass, also known as red fountain grass, is a vibrant ornamental grass prized for its graceful arching spikes of purplish flowers. Its slender, burgundy-colored leaves create a striking contrast, adding texture and movement to landscapes. This fast-growing grass reaches a mature height of 3-5 feet and a width of 2-4 feet.
Planting and Care
Planting:
Purple fountain grass prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant in spring, spacing plants 3 feet apart. Dig a hole deep and wide enough to accommodate the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
Light:
Purple fountain grass tolerates light shade but thrives in full sunlight. Aim for areas with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil:
While not overly picky about soil conditions, purple fountain grass performs best in loamy soil. It can also tolerate a wide range of other soil types as long as they drain well.
Water:
Water regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Allow the soil to dry to the touch between waterings. Mature plants are drought-tolerant and may only need occasional watering during hot, dry periods.
Temperature and Humidity:
Purple fountain grass is cold-hardy down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors. It has no specific humidity requirements.
Fertilizer:
Fertilize monthly during the summer with a general-purpose, slow-release fertilizer.
Types of Purple Fountain Grass
- Pennisetum setaceum ‘Fireworks’: Variegated leaves with burgundy in the middle and hot pink at the edges.
- P. alopecuroides ‘Burgundy Bunny’: Cold-hardy species with burgundy foliage that deepens to a reddish-purple in fall.
- P. alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’: Compact variety with buff-colored flowers.
Pruning
Prune ornamental grasses like purple fountain grass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back leaves severely to 4-6 inches above the base of the plant. This removes dead foliage and promotes healthy new growth.
Propagation
Purple fountain grass can be propagated through division or seeds.
Division:
- Dig up the plant in fall when it is going dormant.
- Divide into sections with healthy roots and leaves.
- Replant immediately and keep the soil moist.
Seeds:
- Collect seeds from flowering stems in fall.
- Surface sow seeds in potting soil and keep moist.
- Transplant seedlings to larger pots when they have two sets of true leaves.
- Harden off plants in spring before planting outdoors.
Overwintering
In colder climates, dig up purple fountain grass and place it in a container. Cut back to 3 inches tall and bring indoors to a cool, well-lit area. Water moderately and avoid freezing temperatures. Acclimate the plant to outdoor conditions in spring before planting.
Common Pests and Diseases
- Slugs and snails: Feed on foliage but rarely cause significant damage.
- Rust fungus: Can occur due to trapped moisture. Increase airflow by spacing plants apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is purple fountain grass easy to care for? A: Yes, purple fountain grass is generally low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering and fertilizing.
Q: How long can purple fountain grass live? A: In warmer climates, it can live for several seasons. In colder climates, it is often treated as an annual.
Q: Can purple fountain grass grow indoors? A: Yes, it can grow well indoors in cool, sunny conditions.
Q: What are the different types of purple fountain grass? A: There are several cultivars, including ‘Fireworks’, ‘Burgundy Bunny’, and ‘Little Bunny’, each with unique foliage or flower characteristics.
Q: How do I propagate purple fountain grass? A: It can be propagated through division or seeds. Division is a faster and more reliable method.
Q: How do I overwinter purple fountain grass in cold climates? A: Dig up the plant, cut it back, and bring it indoors to a cool, well-lit area. Protect it from freezing temperatures.