Pennisetum setaceum

fountain grass

• Position: full sun
• Soil: light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Flower colour: pink to purplish pink
• Other features: self-seeds freely; the flowers are useful for fresh or dried flower arrangements
• Hardiness: frost hardy
  
  This gorgeous ornamental grass looks wonderful planted in large drifts where the pink or purple-pink flower spikes can be seen swaying in the breeze. The flowers make an interesting, textural addition to fresh flower arrangements and can also be dried for a longer-lasting display.
  
  
• Garden care:Under glass, surface-sow onto freely-draining compost and maintain temperatures between 13 to 28°C. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, pot several up into a small pot filled with well-drained compost and grow on. Harden off gradually before planting out after all risk of frost has passed. They will thrive in a sunny, well-drained position. Protect in winter with a generous layer of mulch, or move potted plants to a sheltered spot. Avoid excessive winter wet.
  
  
• Sow: March-May
  
  
• Flowering: July-October
  
  
• Approximate quantity: 45 seeds.