The Latin name for Pennisetum, Pennisetum, can be traced back to its attractive inflorescences. “Penna” means feather, “Seta” means bristle. The ornamental grass forms an exceptionally pretty clump of leaves, the foliage of which overhangs in a hemispherical shape. In spring, however, feather bristle grass tends to be a late bloomer, so many plant lovers wonder whether the plant actually sprouts so late or has even died.
When does the Pennisetum sprout?
Pennisetum does not sprout green stalks until late in spring, sometimes not until early May, depending on the region and weather conditions. It is one of the “warm-season grasses” and is a late bloomer compared to “cold-season grasses” such as fescue species.
The Pennisetum grass hibernates for a long time
Pennisetum is one of the “warm-season grasses” that sprout green stalks very late. Depending on which region you live in, budding doesn't occur until the beginning of May. Especially in rough locations, you have to be patient and not think too early that the ornamental grass has not survived the winter.
Preparing for the new gardening season
Late budding in spring also affects care:
- Do not shorten Pennisetum in autumn, but only in spring.
- Tie the grass together and leave the leaves and inflorescences on the plant. This means that the leaves protect the heart from cold and moisture.
- In late spring, just before the young shoots appear, cut off the dried stalks about a hand's width above the ground.
- Wear gloves when doing this work, as the edges of the leaves are often razor-sharp.
Pruning in spring also prevents the fresh shoots from getting caught in the dead leaves. They would then continue to grow poorly and could be damaged if you try to separate the withered leaves from the new growth.
The Pennisetum grass only produces flowers late in the gardening year
In contrast to the cold-season grasses, which include the fescue species, for example, you can only expect flowers from the Pennisetum grass in mid or late summer. The false panicles survive the winter months and provide attractive accents when almost nothing else is blooming in the garden.
Tip
The dense foliage of the feather bristle grass and the flowers covered in hoarfrost look extremely decorative in winter. However, Pennisetum is also valued as a winter quarters by hedgehogs and many other garden inhabitants and therefore fulfills important ecological aspects.
