Grass
Chinese fountain grass
Cenchrus alopecuroides
A clumping perennial grass with arching leaves and soft bottlebrush flowerheads in late summer and autumn. It flowers best in sun; winter survival depends on cultivar, drainage and local conditions.
- Size
- 0.6–1.5 m high · 0.6–1.5 m wideVaries by cultivar
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Needs protection
- Seasonal form
- Dies back
- Maintenance
- Moderate
Before planting
- Choose a locally proven cultivar and protect the crown where winters are severe; avoid wet winter soil.
Why choose it
- Arching foliage and late-season flowerheads soften perennial plantings.
Care
- Water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
- Remove dead leaves and spent stems in late winter or early spring before new shoots develop.
Good to know
- Pennisetum alopecuroides is the familiar synonym. Fertile forms can self-seed; sterility is cultivar-specific.