Chinese fountaingrass (Cenchrus alopecuroides) is an ornamental perennial grass that is native to Asia and Australia. It earns its common name from the fact that it produces long flower spikes that erupt and curve out from the plant like a fountain of water. The flower spikes develop into seed heads that resemble bottle brushes and are usually silvery white or pink.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
Pennisetum alopecuroides (Pen-ih-SEE-tum al-oh-pek-yur-OY-deez), the Chinese pennisetum, Chinese fountaingrass, dwarf fountain grass, foxtail fountain grass, or swamp foxtail grass, is a species of perennial grass native to Asia and Australia.
The Latin specific epithet alopecuroides means “like the genus Alopecurus (foxtail)”.
The plant is a warm season ornamental grass which typically grows gracefully, spreading clumps from 2–3 ft (0.61–0.91 m) tall and wide. It features narrow, medium to deep green leaves (to 1/2″ wide) in summer, changing to golden yellow in fall, and fading to beige in late fall. The foliage usually remains attractive throughout the winter. Showy, silvery to pinkish-white, bristly, bottle brush-like flower spikes arch outward from the clump in late summer like water spraying from a fountain (hence the common name “fountain grass”).Â
The flower spikes turn brownish as the seeds form, and usually persist until late fall or early winter before shattering. Many cultivars are available in horticulture, ranging in height from 1–5 ft (0.30–1.52 m) and featuring a variety of different flower colors (purples, pinks or whites) and autumn foliage.
The plant generally needs a sheltered position in full sun to light shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil. It will grow in any mild or coastal area where the temperature does not fall below −5 °C (23 °F). The best time of the year for planting is between late Summer and Winter.
II. How to Grow and Care
Chinese fountaingrass is known for its adaptability and ease of care. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, although it thrives in well-draining soils. Special care points for chinese fountaingrass include avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot and cutting back the foliage in late winter to promote healthy new growth in the spring.
Sunlight
Chinese fountaingrass thrives best under conditions of full sun exposure, which entails unfiltered and direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day. This optimal intensity of light encourages robust growth and bolsters its vitality. In terms of tolerance, chinese fountaingrass does exhibit resilience to less than ideal conditions, adapting to partial sun—which is a blend of shade and sunlight for roughly 4-6 hours a day.
Under these suboptimal conditions, chinese fountaingrass may experience a slower growth rate and potentially less vigorous health. To maintain chinese fountaingrass’s optimal coloration and form, outdoor positioning that allows for extensive sun exposure is preferred, as it is rarely an indoor specimen.
Adaptive characteristics may include leaf orientation changes to optimize light absorption. When planning an outdoor space, planting chinese fountaingrass in areas with minimal shade cover will capitalize on its light preferences and foster a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Watering
Thriving in its native grasslands, chinese fountaingrass has adapted to periodic moisture and dry spells, indicating a preference for moderate hydration. Its water habits reflect an equilibrium between drought tolerance and the need for consistent moisture, especially during active growth phases. Watering every week will maintain this balance, ensuring healthy development. Commonly grown outdoors, chinese fountaingrass benefits from a well-draining soil that mimics its natural habitat, which is crucial for preventing root rot while accommodating its watering needs.
Soil
Chinese fountaingrass can tolerate a variety of soil conditions, although it thrives in well-draining soils.
Fertilizing
For optimal growth, chinese fountaingrass benefits from mulch or compost annually. Fertilize in the growing season to support foliage and inflorescence production, applying a 2-inch layer of compost. Over-fertilizing can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms, so moderation is key. Seasonal differences affect chinese fountaingrass’s nutrient uptake; fertilize lightly in spring and fall, avoiding winter dormancy periods. When fertilizing, ensure even distribution to promote uniform growth. Regular fertilization maintains chinese fountaingrass’s vigor, enhancing its ornamental appeal and robustness.
Propagation
Chinese fountaingrass, a perennial ornamental grass, is commonly reproduced via sowing. Successful propagation begins with the preparation of well-draining soil, ideally rich in organic matter. Surface sow seeds as chinese fountaingrass requires light for germination. Maintain a consistent moisture level and protect the sown area from heavy rains or watering that can displace the small seeds. Once seedlings are of sufficient size to handle, they should be carefully transplanted to their final location with adequate spacing to accommodate mature growth.
Transplanting
Transplant chinese fountaingrass in the vibrancy of early to mid-spring for robust root establishment before summer’s heat. Choose a sunny locale with well-draining soil. When relocating, ensure minimal root disturbance to encourage seamless acclimatization.
Repotting
Best in spring, repot chinese fountaingrass every 2-3 years to accommodate its tufted, mound-forming growth. Choose a container one size larger to allow for root expansion. Post-repot, place in a well-lit area and water thoroughly, avoiding wet feet. With its fountain-like foliage, chinese fountaingrass prefers well-draining soil for optimal health.
III. Uses and BenefitsÂ
Feathery chinese fountaingrass is a decorative clumping grass that makes sunny garden borders and beds more interesting. It works in wildlife gardens since it attracts birds and butterflies; however, it also attracts deer, which might cause issues. The gold and green turn lighter in the fall, giving additional ornamental value to this delightful plant.
