Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’

Red Head Fountain Grass | Non-Native

Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Size: Approx. 3–4 ft. tall × 2–3 ft. wide
Bloom: Smoky pink to burgundy-red plumes, midsummer into early fall
Type: Warm-season perennial ornamental grass
Native Status: Non-native; species native to eastern Asia and Australia
Garden Value: Fall color, winter interest, low maintenance, and attractive seed heads for birds

Dramatic Plumes That Steal the Show

‘Red Head’ Fountain Grass is known for its large, smoky burgundy flower plumes that appear earlier than many other fountain grasses. The fuzzy, bottlebrush-like blooms rise above gracefully arching green foliage, creating beautiful movement and texture in the landscape. As fall arrives, the foliage takes on golden-yellow tones for another season of interest.

Plant it in full sun for the best flowering, although it can tolerate some afternoon shade. Once established, ‘Red Head’ is drought tolerant and works beautifully as a specimen, planted in groups, or mixed into sunny borders.

Good to Know: The plumes can also be cut for fresh or dried arrangements, and leaving the foliage standing through winter adds texture to the garden. Cut the old growth back in late winter before new growth begins.