Fountain Grass 'Red Riding Hood'

This ethereal dwarf grass is upright and narrow with arching, burgundy foliage. The lush clump is topped with prolific, pretty plumes spring to autumn. Initially rosy shades of pink and purple, they mature to autumnal shades of golden straw.

Pennisetum ‘Red Riding Hood’ doesn’t mind the heat, humidity or wind and is hardy to -5C. Quick to establish and easy care this grass will soon be a firm favourite.

The soft, feathery plumes are ripe for the picking and can even be dried. Left in the garden they create a gorgeous treat that changes with the day’s light. They are also a textural delight, crying out to be touched. They begin early summer and last in to autumn or even winter.

Useful as a specimen plant, as part of a border, grouped, embankments, or even in containers.

Tolerant of poor soils and dry conditions, Pennisetum Grasses are perfect for a sunny garden spot and won’t need much of your attention to look good. Water to establish, then you only need worry if rainfall is low.

Common names for Pennisetum are Foxtail grass, Fountain Grass, Purple Fountain Grass and Chinese Fountain Grass. The botanical name is Latin, penna ‘feather’ and seta ‘bristle’.