Red bunnytail, Pennisetum massiacum
I often think about rabbits around Easter, but I also think about rabbits in the fall, when I need grass that will definitely work in the garden, and I inevitably end up touching the red rabbit’s tail. will grow. I have used this burgundy top lawn in many different gardens and have usually had the same results. If your fall garden needs interest, consider adding Pennisetum massiacum, an attractive grass with fuzzy plumes of festive colors.
Native to East Africa, this heat-tolerant evergreen works reliably in gardens in zones 7-11. In late spring and summer, you’ll see fluffy burgundy flower feathers, resembling small red rabbit tails (or rabbit feet), rising from the glossy green leaves. Then, in fall, the flowers slowly turn yellow-brown and the leaves turn burgundy. Growing in neat tufts about 2 feet tall and wide, this grass is a great addition to your garden with other ornamental grasses, pollinator-friendly perennials, or even bold succulents.
This grass is great at adding movement, texture, and a touch of color to your garden. Side note: I’m a big fan of burgundy-colored plants, so I might be a little biased here, but what I’ve found is that this color pairs well with most other colors, making it ideal for established gardens. This means that it can be easily added to. If you live near the coast, this grass tolerates salt. Additionally, it moves with the breeze, causing plumes of smoke to dance on the arching leaves. Even if you live further inland, strong winds will likely cause this grass to move.
cheat sheet
This grass looks especially beautiful when backlit due to its thin reddish leaves and fluffy reddish feathers that appear almost translucent. This grass looks beautiful when planted on hillsides or in clusters. Another spot to consider is the “hell strip” area by the sidewalk. This medium-sized lawn won’t overwhelm a small space. Fortunately, deer don’t find it palatable. Combine this penisetum with echinacea, rudbeckia, sesleria, and agave. Cut the flowering stems and use them fresh or dried in flower arrangements.
keep it alive
Hardy in USDA zones 7-11. In cold regions, it is treated as an annual plant. Plant this penisetum in a sunny location and make sure the soil is well-drained. However, I have planted these plants in clay soil before and they thrived despite the less than ideal conditions. Like most plants, this grass likes to be watered regularly until it’s established, but the frequency of watering may decrease as it grows. I like to kill the stems in late fall when they get too tan and wobbly, but that’s just a cosmetic preference. Additionally, I like to prune a few inches in early spring to rejuvenate the plant. Easy to care for, this grass is not affected by serious diseases or pests.
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