Fountain Grass Red

Fountain Grass Red (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'), commonly known as Purple Fountain Grass, is an ornamental grass that typically grows 3–5 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide. Its narrow, burgundy-purple leaves form arching clumps, while soft, reddish-purple flower plumes rise above the foliage. In Southwest Florida, it is commonly used as a foliage accent in sunny landscape beds, outdoor containers, and grouped ornamental grass plantings.

This grass grows best in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. At least six hours of direct sunlight daily helps maintain its deep purple coloring and supports flower production. Excessive shade can cause the foliage to appear greener and reduce the number of plumes.

For landscape planting, space Fountain Grass Red approximately 2–4 feet apart, depending on the starting plant size and desired coverage. Its arching growth requires room to spread naturally without crowding nearby plants or extending into narrow walkways.

Newly planted Fountain Grass Red needs regular watering while its roots become established. Mature plants tolerate short dry periods and generally require less frequent irrigation. Allow the upper soil to begin drying between waterings, and avoid locations where water collects after heavy rainfall.

Fountain Grass Red produces soft, bottlebrush-shaped flower plumes that emerge in reddish-purple shades and gradually fade to tan as they age. Flowering is most active during warm weather, with plumes extending above the foliage and moving naturally in the breeze.

This ornamental grass grows at a moderate to fast rate during warm weather. Remove damaged or aging leaves as needed, and trim back older growth when necessary to encourage fresh foliage. Apply a light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer during active growth if needed.

Fountain Grass Red tolerates Southwest Florida's heat but may experience leaf damage during freezing temperatures. Growth can slow during cooler months, with new foliage developing when warm conditions return.

Why You'll Love It

Burgundy-Purple Foliage: Produces narrow, arching leaves in deep red and purple shades that contrast with surrounding green landscape plants.

Feathery Flower Plumes: Develops soft, reddish-purple flower spikes that gradually fade to tan as they mature.

Naturally Arching Growth: Forms rounded clumps that add height and movement without requiring regular shaping.

Seasonal Color: Maintains its strongest foliage coloring during sunny, warm growing conditions.

Container Friendly: Suitable for large outdoor planters where its foliage and flower plumes can spread over the edges.

Sun Requirements: Grows best in full sun, with at least six hours of direct sunlight supporting stronger purple coloring and flowering.

Water Needs: Water regularly during establishment. Mature plants tolerate short dry periods and benefit from irrigation during extended drought.

Mature Size: Approximately 3–5 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide, depending on growing conditions.

Best Uses: Sunny landscape beds, ornamental grass borders, patio containers, raised planters, grouped foliage plantings, and tropical garden accents.