Grass · Poaceae family
Fountain grass
Pennisetum alopecuroides
In short a 10-second read
spacing 80 cm
Where to plant and how much to water
Sun, soil and water.
It grows best in full sun, in dry to average soil.
Sun
Soil
Watering
Frost
How much space it takes
Mature size.
The mature plant next to a person (175 cm).
Plant 80 cm apart.
Reaches maturity in about 2–5 years. The final size depends on the cultivar and the spot — we give the range from smallest to largest.
Calendar
Through the year.
Months for Central Europe. The line shows the current month.
The year at a glance
Planting
container plant: April–May
What to plant now (April) full list in April (324) →What to plant now (May) full list in May (186) →
Feeding
Nutrition.
Pests and diseases
Common problems and what to do.
The most common problems in Central Europe. Protection is listed from the gentlest option.
No serious pests or diseases
The source lists no significant problems.
Sources (1)
What to combine it with
Same needs, different flowering.
They share the same sun and soil and flower in other months — so the bed flowers for longer.
Frequently asked
Quick answers.
Does fountain grass tolerate shade?
No, it needs full sun.
How much space does fountain grass need?
At maturity 0.4–1.2 m wide and 0.5–1.8 m tall; recommended spacing 80 cm.
Sources (11) Checked 24 October 2026
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