Pennisetum macrourum
African feather grass
Tall, airy stems give this grass a striking architectural, vertical line, topped with slim flower spikes that sway cleanly above...
9cm pot
£12.99
In stock (delivery within 2-3 working days)
3 × 9cm pots
£37.50
£12.50 each
In stock (delivery within 2-3 working days)
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Plant description
Tall, airy stems give this grass a striking architectural, vertical line, topped with slim flower spikes that sway cleanly above the foliage. Pennisetum macrourum grows into a loose clump of narrow, mid-green leaves that stay tidy through the season, making it useful for adding height and movement to mixed borders or prairie-style planting.
The tight cylindrical blooms appear from late summer, opening pale green before maturing to soft purple-brown tones that hold well into autumn. These bristly spikes catch the light and work neatly with perennials and other grasses, offering structure without becoming heavy.
Growth is modest until established, improving once the plant settles into a sunny, well-drained position where it remains a reliable choice for gardeners wanting a tall ornamental grass with fine texture and long-lasting seasonal interest.
The tight cylindrical blooms appear from late summer, opening pale green before maturing to soft purple-brown tones that hold well into autumn. These bristly spikes catch the light and work neatly with perennials and other grasses, offering structure without becoming heavy.
Growth is modest until established, improving once the plant settles into a sunny, well-drained position where it remains a reliable choice for gardeners wanting a tall ornamental grass with fine texture and long-lasting seasonal interest.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
How to care for Pennisetum macrourum:
When planting add a scoop of well-rotted organic matter and perhaps some horticultural grit to improve drainage. Feed with a general purpose fertiliser during the growing season.
In autumn, add a generous layer of mulch to provide an insulating layer around the roots and leave the top growth for winter protection and interest.
Cut back the previous year's growth each spring to ground level, and if necessary, lift and divide over-large clumps before the new-seasons growth commences.
In autumn, add a generous layer of mulch to provide an insulating layer around the roots and leave the top growth for winter protection and interest.
Cut back the previous year's growth each spring to ground level, and if necessary, lift and divide over-large clumps before the new-seasons growth commences.
Please note:
This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
