Pennisetum a. ‘Hameln’ (25) BR Plants

Description

Product Description

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ Common Name: Grass-Ornamental, Dwarf Fountain GrassZone 5 to 9, Full sun Plants reach 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.

Arching, upright, deep green foliage in summer, changes to orange-bronze in fall and eventually to beige in late fall. Foliage usually remains attractive throughout the winter.

More compact and shorter than the species, ‘Hameln’ has finely textured leaves that are especially lovely when backlit by the early morning or late afternoon sun. Soft, greenish-cream colored panicles begin to appear in midsummer, a few weeks earlier than the species. Silvery to pinkish-white, wheat-like flower spikes arch outward from the clump in late summer.

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’, also known as Hameln fountain grass, is a popular ornamental grass prized for its compact size, attractive foliage, and graceful flower plumes. It is a cultivar of Chinese fountain grass and is a versatile addition to a variety of garden settings. Here is a closer look at its key features:

Appearance:

• Arching Foliage: ‘Hameln’ forms a dense, mounded clump of slender, arching, deep green leaves. The foliage typically grows to about 1.5 to 2.5 feet tall, creating a soft, flowing texture.
• Fluffy Plumes: In late summer to early fall, it produces bottlebrush-like flower plumes that rise above the foliage. The plumes are initially pinkish-white and fade to a light tan or beige as they mature.
• Golden Fall Color: The foliage turns a lovely golden yellow in autumn, adding a warm glow to the garden.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially in hot summer climates.
• Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils, from moist to well-drained. It can even tolerate occasional flooding.
• Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making it a versatile choice for many gardeners.

Care:

• Low Maintenance: ‘Hameln’ is a relatively low-maintenance grass.
• Cutting Back: Cut back the foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every few years in spring to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Uses:

• Borders: Adds texture, movement, and seasonal interest to borders and beds.
• Containers: Its compact size makes it well-suited for containers on patios and balconies.
• Mass Plantings: Creates a beautiful and calming effect when planted in groups.
• Rock Gardens: Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for rock gardens.
• Erosion Control: The strong root system helps to control erosion on slopes and banks.

Additional Information:

• Attracts Wildlife: The seed heads provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
• Deer Resistant: Deer tend to avoid Pennisetum.
• Non-Invasive: ‘Hameln’ is not considered invasive and maintains a neat, clumping habit.
• Award Winner: It received the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association Growers Choice Award in 2000.

If you are looking for a compact and attractive ornamental grass with graceful foliage, fluffy plumes, and a long season of interest, Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ is an excellent choice. It is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that will add beauty and texture to any sunny garden.

Not available for shipment to CA

Mature field grown plant shipped bare root.

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