Pennisetum 'Rubrum'

Enjoy the ruby glow and gently swaying stems of ever-popular Pennisetum 'Rubrum' in your own garden. It’s easy to grow and in the right spot it will thrive, gradually forming a clump which will produce a mass of soft, fluffy flowers which waft in the breeze and fill the space with tranquil energy through summer and autumn. Its sumptuous, dark chocolate-burgundy, soft, grassy foliage provides colour for an incredibly long season, starting in spring and continuing into autumn. This perennial ornamental grass loves to bask in the sun. To add to the show, try combining Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum' with other sun-loving perennials like Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum, heleniums and Verbena – watch as the display matures over the years into a perfect prairie patch!

If you prefer to keep things simple and contemporary, Pennisetum 'Rubrum' can do that too. Plant these fountain grass in groups in large containers, gravel areas or modern troughs and it will look incredible through the season all by itself. When mature this ornamental grass grows to approximately 1m tall. Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum' is perfect for coastal areas or places with light soil and mild winters. It can tolerate temperatures down to around -5°C, so you may need to offer it protection, such as a thick layer of mulch, during winter cold snaps. In cold climates, a hardier ornamental grass like Panicum would be a good alternative.