Dwarf red fountaingrass
Dwarf red fountaingrass showing off in an annuals bed at Hershey Gardens.
* Common name: Red fountain grass
* Botanical name: Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’
* What it is: A non-winter-hardy ornamental grass with burgundy-red leaves and tan, foxtail-like plumes throughout summer. NOT a deer favorite!
* Size: Foliage grows 2 to 3 feet tall with a similar spread. Plumes poke up another foot.
* Where to use: Makes a nice centerpiece in a big pot or can be used in the ground in any sunny spot. Will take light shade, but best leaf color is in full sun. Avoid wet spots.
* Care: Water every day or two for pot-grown plants. In the ground, once a week watering is fine if there’s no rain. No fertilizer or spraying needed. Dig up, pot and move inside before fall frost if you want to try overwintering this tender grass in a cool, bright spot. Otherwise, buy new ones each spring.
* Great partner: Bright annual flowers, such as the ‘Profusion’ zinnias, golden/orange marigolds, golden lantana or sun-tolerant coleus.