Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’

Chinese fountain grass 'Red Head'

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’ is a striking ornamental grass with large, smoky-purple plumes in late summer. Growing 50–100 cm tall, it forms elegant, arching green foliage that turns golden in autumn.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, it thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Ideal for borders, wildlife gardens, and mixed plantings, Chinese Fountain Grass adds texture, movement, and seasonal interest, making it perfect for modern landscapes and drought-tolerant gardens.

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Red Head' is out of stock

Origin: Species native to Asia and Australia, cultivar of horticultural origin

Genus: Pennisetum

Species / Cultivar: alopecuroides 'Red Head'

Common Name: Chinese fountain grass 'Red Head'

Synonym: Pennisetum 'Red Head', Cenchrus alopecuroides 'Red Head'

Plant Biography

Pennisetum alopecuroides, commonly known as fountain grass or Chinese fountain grass, is a warm-season perennial native to East Asia and Australia. It was first described by Western horticulture in the 19th century and belongs to the Poaceae family. Valued for its graceful form and feathery plumes, it became popular in ornamental horticulture worldwide.

‘Red Head’ is a cultivated variety selected for its exceptionally large, smoky-purple flower heads that emerge earlier than other cultivars. Its adaptability to various climates and soils has made it a staple in modern landscape design. This selection highlights the ongoing breeding efforts to enhance the aesthetic appeal and resilience of ornamental grasses.

Soil: Well drained

Soil that does not show much signs of moisture, either visibly or when handled.

Growth Rate: Fast

Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.

Water Requirement: Low

Will grow in a drier position and is unlikely to need regular watering once established.

Maintenance: Low

Requires no attention beyond correct position and watering. An ideal starter plant!

Situation: Full Sun

Wants direct, unfiltered sunlight most of the day, such as a south facing position.

Eventual Height: 0.5-1m

The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.

Eventual Spread: 0.5-1m

The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.

Hardiness: Half Hardy

Will need protection from frosts in order to survive winter, eg. with fleece jacket.

Habit: Semi Evergreen

May only remain evergreen in milder winters, or only loose leaves for a short period.

Lifecycle: Perennial

This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.

Care & Size Guidance

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’ grows 50–100cm tall and forms a dense, arching clump up to 100cm wide. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, tolerating drought once established. Water regularly during its first year to encourage strong root growth. In late summer, it produces large, smoky-purple plumes that mature to soft tan.

Cut back old foliage in early spring to promote fresh growth. Chinese fountain grass is perfect for borders, wildlife gardens, and mixed plantings. This low-maintenance ornamental grass adds movement and texture, making it ideal for contemporary landscapes and drought-tolerant gardens. Mulch well in colder areas.