Fountain Grass
cenchrus setaceus
Also known as: ["Red Fountain Grass","Feather Grass"]
Overview
A perennial grass known for its arching, feathery plumes that resemble a fountain, often used in ornamental landscaping.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Cenchrus |
| Botanical Name: | Cenchrus setaceus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or large container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures and is not frost-tolerant.
Protect from frost at all costs; avoid placing near drafty windows or air conditioning vents; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding for mature plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun until roots establish.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to a healthy node; thin out dense growth to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier foliage.
Tools
Sharp, clean bypass pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged stems; cut just above a leaf node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in extreme heat; wilting or blackened foliage in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death; frost will kill the plant.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); use frost cloth for in-ground plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause dehydration, and lead to wilting or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in intense heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCenchrus setaceus is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCenchrus setaceus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects when ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCenchrus setaceus, commonly known as Fountain Grass, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fountain Grass invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions, particularly in warmer climates where it self-seeds readily.
Q: How often should Fountain Grass be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering once established.
Q: Does Fountain Grass attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts birds and beneficial insects with its plumes and seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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