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Cassian Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian'
$9.50
Cassian Fountain Grass forms soft, arching clumps that grow 2 feet tall and wide. Its airy plumes and fine texture make it a standout in North Texas flower beds and borders. A great flowerbed filler in large spaces, as well as a great choice for container growth.
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Cassian Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian'

Cassian Fountain Grass is a compact ornamental grass prized for its graceful form and changing seasonal color. Slender green blades form rounded, fountain-like mounds that sway gently in the breeze. In late summer, the plant sends up soft, tan-colored seed spikes that rise above the foliage and persist into fall. As temperatures cool, the blades turn shades of golden tan, extending their appeal well into the season. At maturity, it reaches 2 feet in both height and width, fitting neatly into mixed beds or as a low screen behind flowering perennials.

  • Fine green foliage with an arching form
  • Soft plumes appear in late summer
  • Warm golden fall color
  • Compact, rounded growth habit
  • Blends beautifully into layered plantings

Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. Cut back in late winter before new growth emerges. Its elegant shape and gentle movement add softness and rhythm to North Texas plantings.

Cassian Fountain Grass  is a clumping ornamental grass prized for its graceful arching foliage, bottlebrush-like flower spikes, and low-maintenance nature. Here’s all it needs to grow beautifully in landscapes across Texas:

  • Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to encourage deep root development. Once established, Cassian Fountain Grass is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods to maintain lush foliage and abundant flower spikes. Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to crown rot.
  • Pruning: Cut back old foliage to 4-6 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new shoots emerge. This rejuvenates the clump, encourages fresh growth, and maintains a tidy appearance. Avoid cutting during fall, as the seed heads add winter texture and provide wildlife habitat.
  • Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost in early spring if growth appears sparse. Fountain grasses generally thrive in average soil and too much fertilizer can cause floppy, weak growth.
  • Mulching: Spread a 1-2 inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate temperature. Keep mulch a few inches from the crown to avoid rot.
  • Winter Care: Cassian Fountain Grass may die back in colder regions but will resprout vigorously in spring. In areas with harsh winters, leave dried foliage standing until early spring to protect the crown, then trim back. Container-grown plants can be brought indoors or moved to a sheltered area.

Cassian Fountain Grass is low-maintenance, provides architectural interest, attracts birds, and offers graceful movement with minimal care.

  • Root Rot: Develops in poorly drained soils. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
  • Floppy Growth: Often caused by excess nitrogen or overcrowding. Reduce fertilizer and divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain an upright habit.
  • Leaf Browning: Normal in late fall, but premature browning can result from drought stress or poor soil. Adjust watering and amend soil if needed.
  • Pests: Rare, but aphids or spider mites may appear in hot, dry conditions. Spray affected areas with water or use horticultural oil as necessary.

It grows at a moderate rate, typically 12-24 inches per year, forming dense, arching mounds that reach 3-4 feet tall, including flower spikes. Its growth rate can be enhanced with full sun and fertile, well-draining soil.

Spring or early fall is ideal, allowing roots to establish before extreme summer heat or winter cold.

Deeply water once or twice per week during the first season. Once established, occasional watering during dry spells is sufficient.

Yes, it tolerates moderate drought once established. Supplemental watering helps maintain fuller foliage and longer-lasting flower spikes. Once established, it can survive periods of dry weather without significant stress.

Yes. Large containers with well-draining soil allow Cassian Fountain Grass to thrive, making it a striking accent for patios and decks.

Yes. Divide mature clumps in early spring every 3-4 years to rejuvenate the plant or propagate new plants.

Yes. Its fibrous, arching foliage and textured seedheads are generally unappealing to deer.

With proper care, Cassian Fountain Grass can live 8–12 years or longer, especially with periodic division and pruning to maintain vigor.

Yes. Its arching, flexible foliage tolerates wind well, making it suitable for exposed garden beds and urban landscapes. Planting in slightly sheltered areas can further reduce stress on young plants while they establish.

No, Cassian Fountain Grass blooms in late summer to early fall. Flower spikes persist into fall and early winter, adding ornamental texture even after flowering ends.

Special Features

Compact, Rounded Growth Habit
Soft Plumes Appear in Late Summer
Warm Golden Fall Color
Blends Beautifully into Layered Plantings
Fine Green Foliage with an Arching Form
Leaf Retention:Herbaceous
Scientific Name:Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian'
Sun Needs:Full sun
Maturity:2' H x 2' W
Leaf Color:Elegant tan seed heads contrast beautifully with vibrant green foliage, transitioning to warm amber and gold in the fall.

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Cassian Fountain Grass
Cassian Fountain Grass

This plant

Scientific NamePennisetum alopecuroides 'Cassian'Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’
Size at Maturity2' H x 2' W2' H x 2' W
Leaf RetentionHerbaceousHerbaceous
Sizes Available1 Gal3 Gal
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