What: Grasses add textural interest to any border and this oriental fountain grass is particularly good for the sunny border. Pennisetum orientale “Karley Rose” is noted for its attractive rose-colored flowers — spikes that rise above the mound of foliage in late summer. The foliage turns yellowish after frost, but quickly fades to straw-beige by winter. Flower plumes persist well into winter, providing good winter interest. It looks particularly good when planted with large-leaved perennials for contrast.
Where: The lovely grass needs full sun to flower its best and it will tolerate a hot location. Planting in rich well-drained or sandy soil is preferred, avoiding wet locations. Once established it only requires occasional watering during dry weather. It can be pruned to the ground in fall or winter when the seed heads lose their attractiveness.
Size: Reaches a height of 3 feet with a spread of 3 feet.
GreatPlantPicks.org
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.