Dwarf Fountain Grass

One of my favorite ornamental grasses is the dwarf fountain grass or Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘ Hameln’.  This plant begins to flower in mid-August in the Dallas area.

Dwarf Fountain Grass

Unlike, many ornamental grasses, the compact size works well in residential gardens.  The plumes stand erect and create a visual accent point to the garden that says “look at me!”

I especially like this grass when purple or blue flowering or foliage plants are planted near by such as Scaevola or Loropetalum.  The purple accentuates the wheat color of the plume.

Dwarf Fountain Grass

Another good accent to the Dwarf Fountain Grass is the Double Knock Out Rose.  The movement of the plumes complement the stiff stalks of the Double Knock Out Rose.  This is also true when placed near other rigid elements such as iron fencing or decorative iron accessories.