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Crimson fountain grass
Also known as: Rose fountain grass
Crimson fountain grass (Cenchrus setaceus) is a grass plant also commonly called crimson fountain grass. It grows throughout East Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Crimson fountain grass is drought tolerant and the existence of it increases the risk of fires. Crimson fountain grass is often considered to be an invasive species.
Scientific classification
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Perennial, Annual
Lifespan
Grass
Plant Type
Summer, Fall, Winter
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
20 cm to 1.3 m
Plant Height
60 cm to 1.2 m
Spread
Green, Blue, Red, Purple
Leaf Color
15 cm
Flower Size
Purple
Fruit Color
Purple, Red
Flower Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Crimson fountain grass

Distribution of Crimson fountain grass

Distribution Map
Crimson fountain grass naturally grows from North Africa to Afghanistan and in Tanzania. It has been introduced to Australia, parts of Europe, the western United States, and the northern parts of South American. It's a desert plant whose natural ecosystem is next to roads and in canyons and washes.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Terrestria
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Crimson fountain grass is an ornamental grass used in landscaping, color accenting, borders and more. It is known to have showy leaf blades, which stand out in bed backgrounds. This decorative sedge grass is deer-resistant and attracts songbirds and pollinators to the garden space.
Symbolism
Generosity, health, togetherness
Interesting Facts
Crimson fountain grass, or Cenchrus setaceus, is an invasive perennial bunch grass that has invaded many parts of the world. It was first introduced from South Africa as an ornamental plant but has since threatened native species in other areas. Unfortunately, this plant is known to be a wildfire hazard.
Name Story
Rose fountain grass: It is one of the most beautiful and elegant ornamental grass in the world. Its flowers are featured with smoked rose-purple fluff, which makes the plants full of vitality. Its brilliant spikes of inflorescence stand high above the leaves, arching upward or outward, and cascade like a fountain down the dark green leaves which rustle in the wind, so they are called rose fountain grass.
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Weed Control

Crimson fountain grass is native to Northern Africa and has spread to other regions such as the Southwestern United States, Australia, and New Zealand. It is considered a noxious weed in Hawaii, and an invasive species in North Carolina. This weed displaces rare native plants by absorbing valuable resources. As a grass, it is very flammable which affects native animal populations by creating an unsafe environment to nest in. Lastly, it disrupts the natural flow of water to native drylands in Hawaii. If not desired, its seedlings should be mechanically removed when young or treated using herbicides. The crimson fountain grass is not always undesirable; it is utilized in flower arrangements and its attractive purple flowers are appealing in gardens.
How to Control It
The best time to control crimson fountain grass is before it sets seed, typically in late spring to early summer.
  1. Hand pulling: Grasp crimson fountain grass at the base and pull gently to remove the entire plant, including the root system.
  2. Mulching: Cover the soil around desired plants with a thick layer of organic mulch to suppress crimson fountain grass seedlings from establishing.
  3. Mowing: Regularly mow the area to keep crimson fountain grass from reaching maturity and prevent seed dispersal.
  4. Dense planting: Cultivate other plants densely to outcompete crimson fountain grass and reduce its chances of spreading.
  5. Water management: Control the irrigation in your garden to discourage crimson fountain grass growth, as it prefers dry conditions to flourish.
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Quickly Identify Crimson fountain grass

1
Rich burgundy to reddish-purple foliage distinguishes crimson fountain grass from other grasses.
2
Distinctive bottlebrush racemes with reddish-purple spiklets and feathery awns attract wildlife.
3
Linear leaves up to 1 foot (30 cm) long exhibiting scabrous texture and vibrant color.
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RELATED: How to identify Crimson fountain grass

Care Guide for Crimson fountain grass

Twice per week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Crimson fountain grass originates from East Africa's scrubby habitats, thriving in well-drained conditions with moderate drought tolerance. Watering should occur twice weekly during active growth. Indoors, it adds texture in bright light, showcasing its low-maintenance nature and resilience with minimal water needs.
Fertilize: For optimal growth of crimson fountain grass, apply mulch or compost annually to enhance nutrients. Fertilize in spring, adjusting based on size, but avoid over-fertilization. Reduce fertilization during dormancy in cooler months and incorporate mulch into topsoil while keeping it away from stems to prevent rot.
Propagation: Crimson fountain grass propagates best through division in Spring or Autumn. It is moderately easy to propagate, with successful growth indicated by new shoots. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the root system during the division process.
Repotting: Crimson fountain grass thrives in sunny locations, growing up to 5 feet with a fountain-like shape. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a larger container, ensuring well-draining soil and consistent moisture while avoiding direct sunlight to reduce stress and foster lush growth.
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