Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Red Head'
Red Head Fountain Grass
- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 36–48 inches
- Width
- 24–36 inches
- Flower color
- Burgundy
- Foliage color
- Green in summer, turning gold in fall
- Bloom time
- Mid to late summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Medium; prefers well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back in early spring before new growth emerges
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds; deer-resistant
About this plant
Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Red Head' is a clump-forming ornamental grass that originates from Asia and Australia. It blooms from mid to late summer, producing, dark burgundy, bottlebrush-like flower spikes that resemble large foxtails. These plumes, which can reach up to 10 inches in length, emerge above the graceful green foliage, adding a touch of elegance to garden landscapes.
In autumn, the green leaves transition to gold, eventually fading to buff in winter, providing year-round visual interest. The flowers are excellent for cutting, drying, or fresh arrangements, enhancing both indoor and outdoor settings. 'Red Head' is also valued for its drought tolerance and deer-resistant nature, making it a practical and attractive choice for various garden designs.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Bird Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
