Pennisetum Alopecuroides Red Head
Product Description
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’ - A Graceful Ornamental Grass with Striking Plumes
Add texture, movement, and elegance to your garden with Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’, a stunning ornamental grass known for its graceful, arching foliage and large, deep purple-red flower plumes. As summer progresses, the soft, feathery plumes mature to smoky purple, creating a dramatic contrast against the lush green foliage. This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant grass is perfect for borders, prairie-style planting, containers, and wildlife gardens, offering year-round interest and providing a valuable food source for birds in autumn and winter.
Plant Description
Foliage: Graceful, arching green leaves turning golden in autumn
Flowers: Large, smoky purple-red, bottlebrush plumes appearing from late summer to autumn
Position: Ideal for borders, mixed plantings, containers, and prairie gardens
Flowering Period: Late summer to autumn (July to October)
Height & Spread: 90-120cm tall, spread 60-90cm
How to Grow
Planting Time: Spring
Depth & Spacing:
✅ Plant 2-3cm (1 inch) deep, ensuring roots are well-covered
✅ Space 50-80cm (20-32 inches) apart to allow for natural spreading
Soil Type: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil, but tolerates poor, dry, or sandy conditions
Sunlight: Full sun for best flowering
Care Tips:
✅ Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature
✅ Cut back old foliage in early spring to encourage fresh growth
✅ Dividing every 3-4 years helps maintain plant health and vigour
✅ Leave seed heads through winter to provide food for birds and winter interest
With its bold plumes, elegant movement, and architectural presence, Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Red Head’ is a must-have for modern and naturalistic gardens. Whether planted in borders, containers, or alongside perennials, this ornamental grass guarantees a long-lasting display while attracting pollinators and wildlife.
Bare root sent in 15 x 22cm capper
Specs & Details
- Botanical Name: Pennisetum Alopecuroides
- Flower Colour: Red
- Leaf Colour: Green
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Years to Establish: 1st year
- Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Scented: No
- Pollinator Friendly: No
- Mouse Resistant: Yes
- Rabbit Resistant: Yes
- Deer Resistant: Yes
- Toxicity: Skin/eyes irritant
Delivery Information
DELIVERY INFORMATION
DELIVERY TO UK
UK MAINLAND DELIVERY
- Delivered in 2-3 days
- Tracked delivery with DPD, APC or Royal Mail (depending on type of product)
- Pallet deliveries will be sent via Palletforce
Basket Weight
Delivery Cost
Up to 3kg
£5.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48HR & Royal Mail Tracked 24HR)
3kg and above
£5.95 (DPD Next Day Delivery, order before 2pm)
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS, UK ISLANDS, ISLE OF WIGHT, ISLE OF MAN, JERSEY, GUERNSEY
- Maximum order weight of 200kg
- Delivered in 3-7 days
- Tracked delivery with DPD, APC or Royal Mail (depending on type of product)
Basket Weight
Delivery Cost
Up to 20kg
£5.95
Plus each additional 20kg
£5.95 per 20kg
NORTHERN IRELAND
Please contact us to discuss phytosanitary restrictions and delivery options.
DELIVERY TO IRELAND, EU & EEA
We do not currently ship to the EU or EEA.
DELIVERY TO REST OF WORLD
We do not currently ship to the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the Rest of the World.
- Bulb:
- 1
Pairs well with
Extra Fast Delivery! Ships within 1-2 business days.
4.8 Star Rating
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FAQs
Please read our FAQs page to find out more.
What's the best compost for my flower bulbs?
We would recommend a compost that contains nutrients that last up to 6 months to promote strong, healthy roots, and often includes a wetting agent to improve water retention and drainage for a vibrant spring display.
Here's the perfect one: Click Here
How can I prevent my bulbs from rotting and ensure they bloom again?
Bulbs rot in wet soil! You must have light, well-drained soil. Work compost or organic matter 8-12 inches deep into the planting bed to ensure rapid drainage and aeration.
Plant most bulbs in full sun or part sun for the long-term energy recharge.
What is the most critical step for getting flowers next year after the current blooms fade?
Do not cut the foliage (leaves) after the flower dies. The green leaves need approximately 8 weeks to yellow and brown naturally. This post-bloom period is when the bulb recharges its energy (carbohydrates) for next year’s flower. Cutting them early causes bloom failure!
How deep should I plant my bulbs?
Plant bulbs roughly three times as deep as the bulb’s height (e.g., a 2-inch tall bulb should be planted 6 inches deep). This depth provides crucial thermal protection.
You'll find the exact specifications on the bulbs page/
Do you ship to Northern Ireland or the EU?
At present, we’re unable to ship to Northern Ireland due to post-Brexit regulations. The additional paperwork and costs involved would make it too expensive for customers.
We hope this situation will change in the near future.