Graceful Grasses® Vertigo® Purple Fountain Grass

Graceful Grasses® Vertigo® is a tall, upright purple fountain grass with striking black-purple foliage. Grown primarily for its foliage, it creates a dramatic architectural accent in large containers, mass plantings, and sunny borders. ## Garden Use The exact [Proven Winners plant profile](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/pennisetum/graceful-grasses-vertigo-purple-fountain-grass-pennisetum-purpureum) lists Vertigo as Pennisetum purpureum ‘Tift-8’ USPP22254, with a mature height of 4–8 feet and spread of 2–3 feet. The page lists full sun, an upright habit, container and landscape uses, and USDA Hardiness Zones 8a–11b. The wide height range and narrower spread make it useful as a vertical focal point. ## Seasonal Care Vertigo is a warm-season grass. Its foliage grows most actively in hot weather and turns brown as temperatures fall; it is an annual in most climates and may persist where winters are mild. The [Proven Winners growing notes](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/pennisetum/graceful-grasses-vertigo-purple-fountain-grass-pennisetum-purpureum) advise cutting it back after browning or leaving dry foliage for winter interest. ## Maintenance Cut brown leaves back in fall or by late spring before new growth begins. Divide while actively growing, from spring through mid-summer, rather than while flowering.