Purple Fountain Grass - Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'

Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum')

This stunning ornamental grass brings deep burgundy foliage and airy purple plumes to any landscape, creating a dramatic focal point from summer through fall. When you buy purple fountain grass online from Florida Plant Nursery, you're getting a vigorous specimen that's been carefully cultivated and prepared for success in your garden. Bird lovers especially appreciate this variety, as its showy flower spikes attract wildlife while delivering year-round visual interest.

Landscaping Uses

Purple fountain grass thrives as a standalone specimen, in mixed borders with contrasting perennials, or massed for bold impact. Plant it in prominent garden areas where its rich color and flowing texture can shine, or use containers on patios and entryways to showcase its architectural form. It pairs beautifully with silver-foliaged plants and lighter-colored flowers that make its deep tones pop.

Specifications

Height: 3-4 feet
Width: 2-3 feet
Growth Rate: Fast
Sun: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
Water: Moderate; water when soil surface feels dry
Soil: Well-draining
USDA Zones: 9-11

Why Homeowners Love It

• Rich burgundy-red foliage provides season-long color without flowers
• Delicate purple plumes emerge in warm months for extra dimension
• Attracts birds and pollinators, supporting local ecosystems
• Low-maintenance once established, requiring minimal supplemental care

Planting & Care

Select a location with full sun and dig a hole matching your grass's root ball size. Place the plant, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly to settle roots. Purple fountain grass also adapts well to containers—choose a pot twice the size of the shipped container with drainage holes and fill with quality potting soil. Water whenever the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out. Beyond regular watering during dry spells, this grass needs little else to thrive. Note: plants received in colder months may arrive trimmed back, which encourages vigorous spring growth.