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Etouffee™ Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Etouffee'

  • Compact Clumping Form Stays Neat Without Spreading Like Weedy Fountain Grass Varieties
  • Thrives in Zones 5-9
  • Grows 2-3 ft Tall and Wide
  • Deer Resistant, Salt Tolerant
  • Great Choice for Mass Planting in Cutting Gardens
Regular price $5610
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: This grass thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light daily. While it can handle light afternoon shade, the deep purple foliage color and the abundance of bottle-brush plumes will be much more vibrant with maximum sun exposure.
  • Soil: It prefers well-drained soil that doesn't stay soggy, as "wet feet" can lead to root rot. If you have heavy clay, mix in some organic compost to improve drainage, or plant it in a slight mound to keep the crown above the water line.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water your Etouffee™ Fountain Grass twice a week to help the roots dive deep into the soil. Once established, this variety is quite drought-tolerant and usually only needs a supplemental soak during long periods of extreme heat. If the plant gets too dry for too long, you might notice the foliage tips browning or fewer plumes developing later in the summer.

Pruning Tips

This grass is a "cut back" plant that should be pruned in late winter or very early spring before new green shoots emerge from the center. Use sharp shears to cut the entire clump down to about 4 or 5 inches above the ground. This "haircut" clears out the dead material from the previous year, making room for fresh growth and preventing the center of the plant from becoming cluttered or rotting.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring as you see the first signs of new growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this can force tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. A single spring feeding is generally all this efficient grower needs to produce its signature smoky-colored plumes.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Deer-resistant, Slopes/Erosion Control, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Height 2-3 ft
Width 2-3 ft
Watering Needs Low
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Compact, Spreading, Upright
Plant Life Cycle Perennial
Blooms In Fall, Summer
Flower Color Yellow
Suitable Space Outdoors
Plant Name Grass
Botanical Name Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Etouffee'
Species alopecuroides
Cultivar Etouffee
Class Poales
Does Not Ship To AK, AZ, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Etouffee™ Fountain Grass hardy in zone 5 winters?

  • Yes, Etouffee™ Fountain Grass is hardy in USDA Zone 5 and will reliably return each spring. This perennial ornamental grass thrives in zones 5-9, tolerating cold winters while providing year-round interest. Leave the seed heads standing through winter for added texture, then cut back in early spring.

What are the planting instructions for Etouffee™ Fountain Grass, including sun and soil needs?

  • Plant Etouffee™ Fountain Grass in full sun and well-draining soil in USDA zones 5-9. This drought-tolerant perennial reaches 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for borders or containers. Space plants 2-3 feet apart and water regularly the first season. Shop at Nature Hills for best results.

Is Etouffee™ Fountain Grass non-invasive and sterile, or will it reseed?

  • Etouffee™ Fountain Grass is a sterile, non-invasive cultivar that won't spread aggressively through your garden. This reliable Pennisetum variety produces attractive seed heads for winter interest without creating unwanted seedlings. You can plant with confidence in borders and mass plantings without worrying about containment.

What is the mature size and spread of Etouffee™ Fountain Grass in pots versus in-ground?

  • Etouffee™ Fountain Grass reaches 2-3 feet tall and wide at maturity in both containers and in-ground plantings. Container growth may be slightly more compact due to root restriction. Choose pots at least 18 inches wide to accommodate its full spread and mounding habit.

Will Etouffee™ Fountain Grass survive in partial shade, or does it need full sun?

  • Etouffee™ Fountain Grass performs best in full sun for optimal flowering and compact growth. While it may tolerate light partial shade, you'll see fewer of those gorgeous smoky-pink plumes and potentially looser foliage. For the fullest display in zones 5-9, choose a sunny spot when you shop at Nature Hills.

What are the care requirements for Etouffee™ Fountain Grass in humid climates to avoid fungal issues?

  • Etouffee™ Fountain Grass is naturally resistant to fungal issues due to its drought-tolerant nature. In humid climates, ensure good air circulation by spacing plants 2-3 feet apart and plant in full sun. Avoid overhead watering and cut back in late winter to promote healthy new growth.