Crimson fountain grass (Cenchrus setaceus) is a grass plant also commonly called crimson fountain grass. It grows throughout East Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Crimson fountain grass is drought tolerant and the existence of it increases the risk of fires. Crimson fountain grass is often considered to be an invasive species.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
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.
Fountaingrass can grow up to 4 ft tall and 3 ft wide at the base. Its handsome upright growth, feathery long-lasting spike flowers and tolerance to both hot and cool temperatures have made it a popular landscape plant around the world, including the USA. With sufficient moisture and warm temperatures, it can flower most of the year, and it thrives at elevations from the Sonoran Desert floor to around 4500 feet in Arizona. The cylindrical flowers are 4 to 14 in long, round in cross-section, pink or purplish during colder weather, and turn white when dry.
Fountaingrass has been introduced to the Canary Islands, Sicily, Sardinia, southern Spain, Australia, South Africa, Hawaii, the western United States, southern Florida and New Caledonia. It thrives in warmer, drier areas and threatens many native species, with which it competes very effectively as an invasive species. It also tends to increase the risk of intense wildfires, to which it is well adapted, thus posing a further threat to certain native species.
In Europe, Fountain grass is included since 2017 in the list of Invasive Alien Species of Union concern (the Union list). This implies that this species cannot be imported, cultivated, transported, commercialized, planted, or intentionally released into the environment in the whole of the European Union.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Crimson fountain grass thrives best in conditions of full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain vigorous growth and vibrant foliage coloration. While it tolerates partial sun, inadequate light may lead to leggy stems and a reduction in the intensity of its signature red-toned leaves. Crimson fountain grass is less tolerant of full shade, which could impede its growth and affect overall health.
Outdoors, it prefers sunny, open areas where it can receive unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Unique to crimson fountain grass, its foliage may exhibit more pronounced red hues when exposed to brighter light, signifying a direct influence of light on its aesthetic attributes.
Watering
Originating from open, scrubby habitats in East Africa, crimson fountain grass is adapted to environments where water can be scarce. This species thrives with a balance of moisture and well-drained conditions, showing moderate drought tolerance once established. For optimal growth, watering should align with its native rhythm—twice a week during active growth periods. Indoors, crimson fountain grass adds texture to spaces as an ornamental grass that prefers bright light and minimal water, highlighting its resilience and low-maintenance nature when it comes to hydration needs.
Fertilizing
For healthy growth of crimson fountain grass, apply mulch or compost annually. This boosts nutrient levels, encouraging lush foliage and robust growth. Fertilize in spring to support the active growing season, and adjust quantity relative to the plant size, generally a thin layer suffices. Over-fertilization can harm crimson fountain grass, so use compost sparingly. As crimson fountain grass enters dormancy in cooler months, reduce fertilization. For effective application, integrate mulch into the topsoil around crimson fountain grass, avoiding direct contact with stems to prevent rot.
Propagation
Crimson fountain grass is best propagated through division during Spring or Autumn. Propagation is moderately easy, with success indicated by new shoot growth. Take care not to damage the root system while dividing.
Transplanting
The perfect time to transplant crimson fountain grass is during the peak of spring, when the weather is mild and promising. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for optimal growth. While transplanting, ensure the root ball stays intact for a seamless transition into its new home.
Overwintering
Crimson fountain grass hails from semi-arid, tropical environments, accustomed to mild winters. In its natural state, it enters a dormant period to conserve energy. Gardeners in colder regions should bring crimson fountain grass indoors to protect from frost. Its winter care entails providing sufficient sunlight, reduced watering, and maintaining moderate indoor temperatures. Safe re-introduction to the outdoors is advisable only when frost risk has passed.
Repotting
Ideal for a sunny spot, crimson fountain grass is an ornamental grass that reaches up to 5 feet with a fountain-like shape. Repot every 2-3 years in spring to accommodate root growth and rejuvenate the soil. Choose a container one size larger to encourage expansion. After repotting, ensure well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and avoid direct sunlight to reduce stress and promote lush growth.
III. Uses and BenefitsÂ
Crimson fountain grass is an ornamental grass used in landscaping, color accenting, borders and more. It is known to have showy leaf blades, which stand out in bed backgrounds. This decorative sedge grass is deer-resistant and attracts songbirds and pollinators to the garden space.
IV. How to Control
Small infestations of fountaingrass can be controlled in residential areas by digging up the entire plant, making sure to remove all the crown tissue from where the stems grow. It may be necessary to return to infested areas for several years to remove seedlings. Directed spot spraying of green plants and seedlings with an herbicide containing glyphosate is the most effective way to control large stands of fountaingrass along roadsides, arroyos, rocky slopes, and riparian areas. Aquatic compatible glyphosate must be used in riparian and aquatic habitat.
