Pennisetum Karley Rose

Pennisetum 'Karley Rose' (also called Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose') is a perennial ornamental grass from the grass family, appreciated for its elegant appearance and decorative inflorescences.

 General description

• Plant type: ornamental grass fountain grass ("fountain" grass).

• Origin: cultivar developed in the USA and named after Karley Rose, daughter of the plant's discoverer.

• Appearance: form compact blocks of arched, intense green leaves. From mid-summer to autumn they appear pink-purple fluffy flowers ("foxtails") above the foliage.

 Main features

• Height: approximately 75-100 cm during flowering.

• Width: 60-90 cm.

• Habitat: form a compact blocks, with arched leaves and elegant inflorescences.

• Flowering period: from mid summer to late fall.

• Flower color: pink-purple (sometimes pale pink to almost whitish), decorative and after drying.

 Cultivation and care

• Exposure: prefer full sun, with a few hours of sun per day; also tolerates light partial shade.

• Soil: well drained, moderately fertile or sandy; does not tolerate very wet soils.

• Watering: drought resistant once established, but performs better with moderate watering; he doesn't like "feet in water".

• Cutting: in early spring the old foliage is cut at ground level to allow the new stems to develop.

• Climatic zones: generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9 (temperate climates). 

• Uses in the garden

• Ornamental: looks great in borders, groups, or as a focal point in the garden.

• Containers: also very suitable in pots or planters.

• Cutting for decoration: the inflorescences are also excellent for both fresh and dried bouquets.