Orientale Fountain Grass

Orientale fountain grass is a clumping warm-season grass with green to gray-green leaves and soft pinkish-white flowers that darken to mauve in fall. North Carolina State Extension lists the species under the accepted name Cenchrus orientalis and notes that Pennisetum orientale is its former name; this record retains its assigned botanical name. The [NC Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cenchrus-orientalis/) gives a mature range of 2–3 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide, with USDA Zones 6a–9b. ## Garden Use Use it along a sunny walkway, on a slope, in a mixed border, or in mass plantings. Its plume-like flowers provide soft movement, while songbirds may eat the seeds and pollinators may visit the flowers. The species can be weedy, so site it where its spread can be monitored. ## Growing Conditions Grow in full sun or partial shade in well-drained clay, loam, or sandy soil. It prefers moisture but tolerates drought once mature. This warm-season grass is sensitive to frost and benefits from a sheltered position. ## Seasonal Care Pinkish-white panicles appear in summer and deepen to mauve in autumn. Division is the recommended propagation method. ## Maintenance Remove old foliage before new growth and divide established clumps in spring when they become congested.