Pennisetum alopecuroides “Moudry”-Black Fountain Grass

Propagating Black Fountain Grass as to increase the color of your garden is simple, just dig up the root ball in the spring and divide it more then likely with a spade after you cut the plant back to the ground. There was conflicting information as to the height ranging from 18"-24" and 29"-35" so be sure that you don’t plant it in front of something that will hide what’s behind it. Also some say to cut off the seeds to prevent self-seeding and another says the flowers are sterile and seeds will not be true to form so be safe and cut the seed heads. The flowers are striking, black/purple in late summer to early fall and they are excellent cut flowers, fresh or dried. If you have a wet spot on your property the plant should do well and is drought as well deer resistant. There is also a dwarf variety that only reaches 6"-12". Pennisetum is native to tropical and warm temperate climates but will survive down to Zone 6 with protection.