Fountain Grass 'Red Riding Hood' growing guide

Fountain Grass 'Red Riding Hood'

Botanical name: ‘Red Riding Hood’: Pennisetum setaceum. ‘Rubrum’: Pennisetum x advena ‘Rubrum’
Family: Poaceae
Plant type: Semi Evergreen Perennial
Size (HxW): ‘Red Riding Hood’: 50-80cm x 50-80cm. ‘Rubrum’: 90-120cm x 60-90cm
Depth & spacing: Plant at the same level as in the pot with the roots spread evenly below the soil. See above for spacing.
Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile to humus rich soil. Not too fussy.
Aspect: Full sun to semi shade
Climate: Cool to Mediterranean
Frost: Fully hardy
Water: Water to establish, then only if rainfall is low. Dry tolerant once established.
Fertiliser: A light application of a slow release fertiliser in spring while establishing, then after cutting back annually if your soil is poor, they are not heavy feeders.
Flowering Time: Summer to autumn
Notes: Foliage can be left to stand in winter where it remains with decorative bronze shades, then cut back in early spring before the new shoots push through. Or cut back in late autumn/early winter when the leaves bronze. Both are fine it is a matter of preference. Dig and divide every four or five years to maintain vigour – throw away the old centre of the plant and replant the fresh outer sections. Rubrum is sterile and Red Riding Hood is unlikely to set seed.

Fountain Grass 'Red Riding Hood'