Pennisetum alopecuroides var. viridescens (Dwarf Purple Fountain Grass) seeds

Pennisetum are one of the most popular ornamental grasses as they are easy to grow and maintain and have a long season of interest.

The Dwarf Purple Fountain Grass grows to only 60cm forming a neat clump of narrow, arching, glossy green foliage which turns the most beautiful shades of yellow, amber and bronze in late autumn.  In late summer, smokey, dark purple  plumes appear above the foliage which waft gracefully in the breeze and last well into winter.

Hardy to -7C so in very cold areas with prolonged frosts, best grown in a container and moved to a frost free place for winter.  Milder areas only need a mulch, cloche or fleece jacket.

Hardy Perennial (to -7C)
Flowers: October to December
Height: 60cm
Position: Sun or semi shade in well drained, moist soil

Packet of 20 seeds

GROWING GUIDE

Sowing Instructions:  Sow at any time of year.

Sow onto the surface of a moist, free-draining seed compost and lightly press the seeds into the soil.  Propagate at 20 to 22C in a propagator, greenhouse or on a windowsill indoors sealed in a polythene bag.  Keep the compost moist and the humidity high.  Germination should begin to take place in 14 to 21 days. As soon as some of the seedlings begin to emerge increase ventilation by opening the bag or propagator vents and maintain a temperature of around 15-18C.

Growing Instructions:  Grow the seedlings on, shaded lightly from direct sunlight and when large enough to handle, pot up individually into 8 or 9cm pots.  When large enough, plant out in a sunny or semi shaded position in well drained, moist soil.

Hardy to -7C so in very cold areas with prolonged frosts, best grown in a container and moved to a frost free place for winter.  Milder areas only need a mulch, cloche or fleece jacket.