Redhead Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Redhead'

Nature Hills Nursery

Dramatic Red-Violet Plumes Arrive Early Summer, Weeks Before Other Red Fountain Grass Varieties
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Showy Red Blooms From Late Summer to Early Fall
Deer Resistant, Salt Tolerant
Top Pick for Mass Planting in Cutting Gardens

$60⁷⁴

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Plant Size

#3 Container

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Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Full sun is essential for the best performance. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure those deep red plumes develop their signature intensity and the foliage remains sturdy.
Soil: This grass thrives in loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If you have heavy clay, mix in some compost at planting time to improve drainage and prevent the roots from sitting in soggy "cold feet" during winter.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, provide about an inch of water per week to help the root system reach deep into the soil. Once established, Redhead Fountain Grass is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during heat waves can lead to smaller plumes and scorched leaf tips. Think of deep, occasional soakings as the best way to maintain that lush, fountain-like habit.

Pruning Tips

This grass is a "new wood" bloomer, meaning it grows fresh stems each spring. In late winter or very early spring before green blades appear, cut the entire clump back to about 3 to 5 inches above the ground. This "haircut" clears out the old, tan debris so the new growth has plenty of light and space to emerge without getting tangled in last year's straw.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring just as the first green shoots emerge. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because they stimulate soft, lush growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. This late-season surge makes the plant more vulnerable to winter damage and can lead to floppy stems that won't stand up to snow.

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Long-lasting, the Redhead Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Redhead') makes the argument that maybe it's redheads who have more fun. This delightful and dramatic warm-season Ornamental Grass is extravagantly playful and pretty! These majestic plumes appear in mid to late summer long before other grasses send up their flowers.

Unlike some other Grasses, this one produces 5-inch long soft plumes that tickle the air as they bob and sway in the wind. These plumes truly draw attention with their red-violet coloration. And the fun of these puffy, fluffy plumes lasts into summer and fall. In fact, these dynamic plumes transform from their deep reddish-purple to an ethereal silver in fall and remain present through winter!

While these showy plumes give you a lot to write home about, the foliage and form of Redhead Fountain Grass are also quite remarkable. This grass has fine-textured foliage with a lovely yellow-green hue that turns golden as the winter weather arrives. And the Redhead Fountain Grass's form exemplifies that classic fountain form and keeps this form throughout its life. Its narrow leaves shoot toward the sky and then gracefully arch toward the ground.

Planting and Application:

This eye-catching plant is so easy to grow. There are few gardens that can't use at least one of these dramatic little charmers. Use your Redhead Fountain Grass as a back border or a thriller accent. Its medium green foliage and unique plumes make it a great specimen deserving of attention. You'll love the motion they lend a Rock Garden. With a rounded, breezy, natural appeal, it will catch your eye for a long beat and visually bring texture, form, and color to your landscape year-round.

Try lining a staircase with a series of containers. Try a single plant to smaller containers to spill around the base of larger potted plants. Try using this sophisticated, compact grass around seating areas in containers or on front porches in the sun. You'll get year-round easy care color without much maintenance to earn it!

Early-Flowering, Dramatic Plumes - Ravishing Mauve Coloration
Soft Fountain-Like Bright Green Foliage
Dense-Clumping Fountain Form
Great Winter Interest
Great Accent in Perennial Borders, Containers, Borders & Specimens

#ProPlantTips for Care:

This fast-growing grass thrives in heat, drought, humidity, and intense sun. It's easy to grow and deer resistant. Just provide your Redhead Fountain Grass with full sun and water it deeply as it becomes established. Hardy throughout USDA growing zones 5 through 9, these are very adaptable, small-scale Ornamental Grasses!

Warm-season grasses green up later in the spring, but really shine once the hot, dry summer weather kicks in! Mulch with 3-4 inches deep around the plants will also help to keep the roots cool in the hotter summer locations. Prune down to 4-6 inches in early spring before you see new growth, and rake out the clump to remove dead debris and leaves.

Full Sun
Widely Adaptable - Drought Tolerant
Well-Drained Soil - Avoid Over-Fertilizing
Hardy Dwarf Perennial Warm-Season Grass
Easy Care & Low Maintenance
Prune Down in Early Spring
Deer Resistant & Drought-Tolerant

Don't settle for boring, monotone, or prickly. Redhead Fountain Grass will bring fun, color, and excitement to your spring, summer, fall, and winter! Don't wait, order yours now at NatureHills.com!

Botanical Name

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Redhead'
Class

Poales
Species

alopecuroides
Cultivar

Redhead
Growing Zones

5-9
Height

3-4 ft
Width

3-4 ft
Sunlight

Full sun
Growth Rate

Moderate
Flower Color

Red
Leaf Color

Green
Fall Color

Gold
Bloom Period

Late Summer, Early Fall
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AK, AZ, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 5-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hardiness zones for Red Head Fountain Grass?

Redhead Fountain Grass is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. This perennial ornamental grass tolerates cold well and returns reliably each spring. Plant in full sun for best plume development and winter hardiness.

How wide does Red Head Fountain Grass spread at maturity?

Redhead Fountain Grass typically spreads 2-3 feet wide at maturity, forming that classic fountain shape with arching foliage. This compact size makes it perfect for containers or tight spaces where you want dramatic texture without overwhelming nearby plants.

Does Red Head Fountain Grass require full sun?

Redhead Fountain Grass thrives in full sun conditions. This warm-season ornamental grass needs plenty of sunlight to produce its signature red-violet plumes in mid to late summer. Plant it in the sunniest spot in your garden for best flowering and foliage color.

What soil conditions does Red Head Fountain Grass prefer?

Redhead Fountain Grass thrives in well-draining soil and isn't particularly fussy about soil type or pH. This adaptable perennial tolerates both clay and sandy conditions once established. Plant in full sun for best plume color and compact growth habit.

Is Red Head Fountain Grass drought tolerant?

Redhead Fountain Grass is moderately drought tolerant once established, though it performs best with consistent moisture during its first growing season. This warm-season perennial thrives in well-draining soil and full sun conditions. Water regularly the first year, then reduce frequency as the plant matures. Shop drought-tolerant ornamental grasses at naturehills.com.

When should I cut back Red Head Fountain Grass?

Cut back Redhead Fountain Grass in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Since the plumes transform to silver and provide winter interest, wait until after the coldest weather passes. Trim to 4-6 inches above ground level for best results.

Is Red Head Fountain Grass deer resistant?

Redhead Fountain Grass is generally deer resistant due to its coarse texture and ornamental grass characteristics. Most deer avoid grasses like Pennisetum alopecuroides, preferring softer plants. Plant it in exposed areas where deer browse regularly for best results.

Can Red Head Fountain Grass be grown in containers?

Yes, Redhead Fountain Grass thrives in containers and makes an excellent choice for patio gardens. Try single plantings in smaller pots or use them to complement larger container arrangements. Place containers in sunny spots like front porches or around seating areas for year-round texture and color.

What fertilizer should I use for Red Head Fountain Grass?

Redhead Fountain Grass thrives with minimal fertilization as ornamental grasses prefer lean soil conditions. A light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause floppy growth and reduce the dramatic plume display.

When is the best time to plant Red Head Fountain Grass?

Plant Redhead Fountain Grass in spring after the last frost since it's a warm-season grass. This gives the roots time to establish before the showy red-violet plumes appear in mid to late summer. Wait until soil temperatures warm consistently for best results.