Pennisetum 'Tiny Tails'

With its arching bottlebrush plumes in shades of bright pink, raspberry and reddish-silver, Pennisetum 'Tiny Tails' brings a rather theatrical softness to late summer planting. This compact fountain grass forms a neat tussock of slender, green to bronzed foliage, then sends up gently waving stems crowned with fluffy, tail-like flowers that glow when backlit by low sunshine. The effect is a semi-translucent haze, part mist, part feather boa, and entirely charming above mixed borders or generous pots. Despite its showy colouring, Pennisetum 'Tiny Tails' has an easy grace, slipping beautifully among perennials without demanding the whole stage.

Choose a warm, sunny position with free-draining soil and Pennisetum 'Tiny Tails' will reward you with movement, texture and colour from summer well into autumn. It is particularly well suited to mild and coastal gardens, where it combines elegantly with vibrant perennials such as Achillea, smoky foliage, late daisies and other ornamental grasses that enjoy a light touch. The plumes of Pennisetum 'Tiny Tails' are also delightful in autumn cut flower arrangements, adding froth without fuss, which is always useful in a vase. After flowering, leave the faded stems for winter interest or cut back when untidy, protecting Pennisetum advena 'Tiny Tails' from severe or prolonged cold so it returns with fresh vigour in spring.