Dwarf Fountain Grass
By Plenuska - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=43375310
Dwarf Fountain Grass
Scientific Name: Pennisetum alopecuroides
Common Names: Dwarf Fountain Grass, Chinese Fountain Grass
Native to: East Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 2 to 3 feet
Width: 2 to 3 feet
Winter Look: Foliage turns tan or brown and seed heads persist, adding interest
Seasonal Interest: Showy plumes in late summer to fall; foliage turns golden or bronze in autumn
Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established, but prefers regular watering
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerates clay and sandy soils
pH Range: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; deer tend to avoid it
Attracts: Birds (seeds), beneficial insects
Potential Issues: Overwatering or poorly drained soil may lead to root rot; can self-seed in favorable conditions
Notes: Versatile ornamental grass for borders, containers, and mass plantings; low maintenance
By Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=126736916
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’
Description:
‘Hameln’ is one of the most popular dwarf fountain grass varieties, prized for its tidy, compact habit and soft, creamy-white flower plumes that appear in late summer. The plumes persist into fall, transitioning to a tan color, providing long-lasting seasonal interest.
Key Characteristics:
Height: 18 to 24 inches
Width: 18 to 24 inches
Foliage: Narrow, bright green leaves that turn golden in the fall before fading to tan in winter.
Plumes: Soft and airy, creamy white, appearing earlier than many other fountain grass varieties (late summer).
By Photo by David J. Stang - source: David Stang. First published at ZipcodeZoo.com, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=61038323
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’
Description:
‘Little Bunny’ is the smallest variety of fountain grass, known for its miniature size and delicate, tufted plumes. It’s perfect for rock gardens, edging, and containers where space is limited.
Key Characteristics:
Height: 8 to 12 inches
Width: 8 to 12 inches
Foliage: Fine-textured, bright green leaves that turn golden-brown in the fall.
Plumes: Soft, silvery-white plumes resembling miniature bottle brushes that appear in late summer to fall.
Notes:
‘Little Bunny’ is a fantastic choice for tight spaces or as a whimsical accent in small garden areas. Its tiny size makes it less imposing but equally charming compared to larger fountain grass varieties.