Cassian Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian's Choice'

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Cassian’, commonly known as Cassian Fountain Grass, is a compact ornamental grass celebrated for its graceful appearance and adaptability. This warm-season perennial forms dense clumps of arching, narrow green foliage that transitions to golden hues in autumn, adding seasonal interest to gardens and landscapes. In late summer, soft, bottlebrush-like flower spikes emerge, ranging in shades of tan to pinkish-purple, creating a striking visual contrast against the foliage. These blooms persist into winter, providing texture and movement in the garden.

Cassian Fountain Grass is a versatile choice for various landscape applications, including borders, mass plantings, and container gardens. Its compact size, reaching 2–3 feet in height and width, makes it suitable for smaller spaces while still offering a bold architectural presence. This grass thrives in USDA zones 5–9 and is tolerant of heat, humidity, and drought once established. Its low-maintenance nature and resistance to pests and diseases make it an excellent option for gardeners seeking reliable and attractive plants.

Care Instructions

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
• Soil Preferences: Thrives in well-drained soil, including sandy or loamy types. Avoid overly wet or compacted soils.
• Watering Needs: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which may lead to floppy stems.
• Pruning Guidelines: Cut back clumps to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
• Spacing: Space plants 2–3 feet apart to allow for their mature size and natural spread.

Cassian Fountain Grass is a reliable and visually appealing addition to gardens and landscapes. Its graceful foliage, airy blooms, and seasonal color transitions make it a standout choice for enhancing borders, creating focal points, or adding texture to mixed plantings. With minimal care requirements, it offers beauty and functionality year-round.