Purple Fountain Grass Plant Care
Pennisetum setaceum (Forssk.) Chiov.
Cenchrus setaceus, commonly known as crimson fountaingrass, is a C4 perennial bunch grass that is native to open, scrubby habitats in East Africa, tropical Africa, the Middle East and south-western Asia. It has been introduced to many parts of the world as an ornamental plant, and has become an invasive species in some of them.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Purple Fountain Grass?
Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum) belongs to the Poaceae family within the Pennisetum genus. Purple Fountain Grass is native to open, scrubby habitats in East Africa, tropical Africa, the Middle East and south-western Asia. Purple Fountain Grass is also known as Fountain Grass, Crimson Fountain Grass, African Fountain Grass.
Purple Fountain Grass displays an upright, clumping grass growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Purple Fountain Grass produces showy, feathery flower spikes in various colors.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Purple Fountain Grass?
Pennisetum setaceum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Purple Fountain Grass Need?
Purple Fountain Grass thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Purple Fountain Grass in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Purple Fountain Grass Prefer?
Pennisetum setaceum grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Purple Fountain Grass prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Purple Fountain Grass?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Purple Fountain Grass to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Purple Fountain Grass?
Divide and repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Purple Fountain Grass?
Purple Fountain Grass can be propagated through division, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to fountain grass plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Purple Fountain Grass Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Purple Fountain Grass?
Purple Fountain Grass is susceptible to aphids, grasshoppers, cutworms. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Purple Fountain Grass Need?
Purple Fountain Grass grows outdoors in USDA Zone 8a – 11b. Native to open, scrubby habitats in East Africa, tropical Africa, the Middle East and south-western Asia, Purple Fountain Grass is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Purple Fountain Grass as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 8a – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Purple Fountain Grass is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Pennisetum genus — compare its care with other Pennisetum species on PlantoScan.
Purple Fountain Grass tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Pennisetum Species
Other Pennisetum species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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