Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’) is a stunning ornamental grass that adds beauty and texture to any landscape. With its striking purple-tinted foliage and unique feathery plumes, it is a popular choice for gardens, patios, and containers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to grow and care for purple fountain grass, ensuring your plant thrives year after year.
Overview About Purple Fountain Grass
| Common Name | Purple Fountain Grass |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’ |
| Family | Poaceae (Grass Family) |
| Plant Type | Perennial (Usually grown as annual in colder climates) |
| Mature Size | 3-5 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, moderately fertile |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral) |
| Hardiness Zones | 9-11 (can be grown as an annual in colder climates) |
| Native Area | Africa, Asia |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to humans and pets |
Planting and Transplanting Purple Fountain Grass
Planting purple fountain grass is easy and rewarding, but it does require some care to ensure healthy growth. Here’s how to plant and transplant this gorgeous grass in your garden.
Planting Purple Fountain Grass
To plant purple fountain grass, begin by selecting a sunny location with well-draining soil. This grass thrives in full sunlight, and its vibrant color will only be enhanced by plenty of direct sun. If you’re planting in the ground, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork and mixing in compost to ensure good drainage and fertility.
- Dig a Hole: The hole should be roughly twice the size of the plant’s root ball to give it plenty of space to spread.
- Place the Grass: Gently remove the grass from its container and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground surface.
- Fill and Water: Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle the roots. Add a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.
Transplanting Purple Fountain Grass
If you’re moving an existing plant, transplant it in early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Follow similar steps to those outlined above: dig up the root ball, prune any damaged roots, and replant in a new location with adequate sunlight and well-draining soil.
Purple Fountain Grass Care
Caring for purple fountain grass is relatively simple, but like any plant, it requires attention to a few essential needs to stay healthy.
Watering
Purple fountain grass is drought-tolerant once established, but it needs regular watering during its first growing season. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. After establishment, water only during prolonged dry spells.
Fertilizing
Feed your purple fountain grass in the spring when new growth begins. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage strong growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth with little flowering.
Mulching
Applying mulch around the base of the plant helps maintain soil moisture, keeps weeds at bay, and insulates the roots against temperature extremes. Use organic mulch, such as bark or shredded leaves, to keep the soil cool and moist.
Types of Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass comes in several varieties, all known for their dramatic foliage and striking plumes. While Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’ is the most common variety, other types include:
- Pennisetum setaceum ‘Princess’: A more compact variety that is ideal for container gardens and smaller spaces.
- Pennisetum setaceum ‘Skyrocket’: This variety grows taller and narrower, making it perfect for creating a vertical accent in your landscape.
- Pennisetum setaceum ‘Vertigo’: With deep purple-black foliage, this variety offers a more dramatic contrast in your garden.
Each variety has its unique features, but all are prized for their ornamental beauty.
Pruning Purple Fountain Grass
Pruning purple fountain grass is a simple yet essential task for maintaining its shape and health. Follow these steps to prune your plant correctly:
- Timing: Prune purple fountain grass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps prevent damage to new shoots.
- Cutting Back: Using sharp shears, cut the grass back to about 6-8 inches above the ground. This will encourage fresh growth and help the plant look neat.
- Removing Dead or Damaged Foliage: Regularly remove any dead or yellowing leaves to promote better airflow and prevent disease.
Propagating Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass can be propagated through division or from seeds.
Division
The easiest way to propagate purple fountain grass is through division. This is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant:
- Dig Up the Plant: Carefully dig up the clump of grass.
- Separate the Clump: Use a sharp knife or garden spade to divide the plant into smaller sections, each with a healthy root system.
- Replant the Sections: Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly.
Seed Propagation
If you prefer to grow from seed, sow purple fountain grass seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Provide warmth, light, and moist conditions for the seeds to germinate. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Potting and Repotting Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass can thrive in containers, which makes it a popular choice for patios, balconies, and other small spaces. When planting in pots, make sure to choose a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged roots.
Potting
- Select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the root ball with extra space for growth.
- Use a well-draining potting mix enriched with compost or organic matter.
- Place the plant in the center of the pot and fill in with soil, making sure the root ball is level with the pot’s rim.
Repotting
Repot your purple fountain grass every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and ensure the roots have enough space to grow. When repotting, gently remove the plant from its pot, trim any overgrown roots, and transfer it to a slightly larger container.
Overwintering Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass is not frost-tolerant, so it needs to be protected during the winter months in colder climates. Here are a few strategies to help your plant survive the winter:
- Bring Inside: In zones below 9, consider bringing the plant indoors during the winter months. Place it in a sunny window to keep it thriving.
- Cut Back: In late fall, cut the grass back to about 6 inches above the soil to protect the plant from freezing temperatures.
- Mulch: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help insulate the roots.
In zones 9-11, purple fountain grass can often be left in the ground year-round with little to no additional care during winter.
Common Problems with Purple Fountain Grass
Purple fountain grass is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can experience a few common problems:
Yellowing Leaves
If your purple fountain grass leaves are turning yellow, it could be a sign of overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Brown Tips
Brown tips on the grass can be caused by inconsistent watering or exposure to high winds. Regular, deep watering and providing some wind protection can help prevent this issue.
Stunted Growth
If the plant isn’t growing as expected, it may not be getting enough sunlight or nutrients. Ensure the plant is receiving full sun and consider adding a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
While purple fountain grass is generally pest-resistant, it may occasionally attract some common pests.
Aphids
Aphids can sometimes infest purple fountain grass, especially during the warmer months. These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves, causing damage. Use a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap to remove them.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are another common pest. They leave a white, cotton-like substance on the grass. Remove them by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or spraying with insecticidal soap.
Fungal Diseases
If the plant is kept in overly damp conditions, it may be susceptible to fungal infections such as powdery mildew. Ensure the plant has good airflow and avoid overhead watering to prevent moisture on the leaves.
How to Get Purple Fountain Grass to Bloom
Purple fountain grass typically blooms in late summer or fall, producing showy, purple to pink plumes that resemble bottle brushes. To encourage blooming:
- Ensure Full Sun: Purple fountain grass needs full sunlight to bloom well. A location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun per day will promote healthy flowering.
- Proper Care: Watering deeply and regularly, but avoiding over-watering, will allow the plant to thrive and bloom.
- Avoid Pruning During Growing Season: Pruning back the grass during its blooming period can reduce or delay flowering.
FAQ
Q: Is purple fountain grass invasive? A: In some areas, purple fountain grass may be considered invasive due to its ability to self-seed and spread quickly. It’s important to check with your local extension office before planting.
Q: Can purple fountain grass be grown indoors? A: Yes, purple fountain grass can be grown indoors as a houseplant, provided it receives sufficient sunlight and is kept in a well-draining container.
Q: How long does purple fountain grass live? A: Purple fountain grass is typically grown as an annual in cooler climates, while in warmer zones, it can live for several years.
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