Fountain Grass(Pennisetum alo. ‘Moudry’)

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Moudry’, commonly known as Fountain Grass, is a non-native ornamental grass native to eastern Asia. This cultivar is selected for its upright habit, dark flower spikes, and strong late-season presence. Fountain Grass ‘Moudry’ typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall with a spread of 2 to 3 feet, forming a dense, upright clump. The foliage consists of narrow, arching green blades. In late summer to early fall, distinctive cylindrical flower spikes emerge above the foliage, starting as deep purple to near-black and maturing to a softer tan as the season progresses. Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Moudry’ grows best in full sun and prefers well-drained soils. It is tolerant of heat and performs well in average garden conditions but does not tolerate poorly drained soils. Maintenance is low, with cutting back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth. Why choose Fountain Grass Dark blooms: Deep purple to near-black flower spikes add contrast Upright habit: Strong vertical presence in garden plantings Seasonal interest: Provides late summer and fall texture Cultivating tips Sun exposure: Full sun Soil needs: Well-drained soils Maintenance: Cut back in late winter or early spring Designs for your garden Perennial borders: Adds height and contrast Mass plantings: Creates a bold, uniform display Accent plantings: Works as a focal ornamental grass Ecological benefits Low maintenance: Suitable for low-input landscapes Seasonal structure: Adds texture through late summer and fall Clumping habit: Maintains a contained growth form Native alternatives: Prairie Dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis): Prairie Dropseed is a native grass with a fine-textured, mounding habit and similar ornamental use. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum ): Switchgrass is a native grass with upright structure and comparable landscape function. Little Bluestem Grass (Schizachyrium scoparium ): Little Bluestem Grass is a native grass with clumping growth and similar use in sunny plantings. Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.