Plant Database
Chinese Fountain Grass
Pennisetum orientale, Cenchrus orientalis
Chinese Fountain Grass is a resilient and graceful perennial grass valued for its fine texture, adaptability, and soft, arching flower plumes. It forms a dense, low mound of narrow, bright green leaves that turn golden in fall. Throughout the summer and into fall, it produces an abundance of slender, pink-tinged flower spikes that sway gracefully above the foliage, maturing to a soft tan. Exceptionally drought, heat, and salt tolerant once established, it is a tough and beautiful choice for sunny, well-drained gardens, coastal landscapes, or mass plantings.
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Fine-Textured, Arching Foliage & Plumes: Forms a classic fountain-shaped clump with narrow leaves and airy, pinkish flower spikes.
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Excellent Drought & Heat Tolerance: Once established, it thrives in hot, dry, and sunny conditions with minimal water.
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Coastal & Salt Tolerant: Handles windy, seaside conditions and salt spray better than many ornamental grasses.
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Adaptable and Fast-Growing: Quickly fills in an area. Performs well in full sun to very light shade.
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Low-Maintenance Groundcover or Accent: Ideal for erosion control on sunny slopes, as a low-maintenance groundcover, or as a textural accent in borders.