Photo: Blackstem Plants

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Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'

Chinese fountain grass

A superb compact grass that looks as lovely in planters as it does at the front of the border. 

It has stiff, wiry, foliage that remains very tidy and in late summer it's covered by tons of fluffy little flower spikes that turn a gorgeous golden brown. 

The Pennisetum family is tender requiring hot summers to flower well and some protection in winter. 

'Hameln' is a slightly more robust selection that is noted for reliable flower production in our climate. 

All Pennisetum are late season grasses that will really take off when the soil warms up. Do not cut them down until new growth starts from the base, usually from mid February onwards. 

Protect new growth with some fleece if frosts are imminent.