Pennisetum villosum or Feathertop is a graceful and extremely drought-tolerant ornamental grass of medium size. The furry bottle-brush or catkin-like flowers start pale green and turn white. They float like clouds above the foliage, bobbing in the breeze, and you won't be able to resist stroking them as you go past. The flowers, which are popular with flower arrangers, turn brown as they age, and the fine, bright green leaves turn beige in autumn.
A popular perennial grass, Pennisetum Feathertop will add softness and movement to your garden. Excellent when planted in drifts, but also has great impact as a statement specimen plant, to provide an accent, or in pots. It is also effective as an informal hedge. It self-seeds, so remove the flowers early to prevent this if necessary.
As it is a fairly undistinguished plant until the flowers appear, try underplanting with spring bulbs or pair with early flowering perennials such as verbenas, alliums or sedums.
A recipient of the RHS AGM (Award of Garden Merit), for all round excellence in the garden.
Pot Size: 3L
Common Names: Feathertop Grass, Foxtail Grass
Hardiness: Half hardy (protect from winter frosts in cold areas)
Height and Spread: 60cm x 60cm
Preferred Soil Type: Any light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil, even nearly pure sand
Position: Full sun
Flowering period: July – September
Care: Tidy dead foliage in spring