
Fountain Grass
Pennisetum hybrid Royal Collection First Knight Portfolio
A dramatic and elegant ornamental grass, 'First Knight' Portfolio offers stunning dark foliage and graceful plumes.
Size
Installation
About this plant
Standing tall with upright, arching form, Pennisetum hybrid 'First Knight' Portfolio is a showstopper in any landscape. Its deep burgundy to near-black foliage provides a striking contrast, maintaining its intense color throughout the growing season. This selection from the Royal Collection Portfolio series is known for its robust growth and consistent performance. Adding further allure, delicate, feathery plumes emerge in late summer, rising above the dark leaves. These soft, reddish-purple inflorescences sway gently in the breeze, creating a captivating visual and auditory experience. Ideal for adding architectural interest, 'First Knight' is perfect as a specimen plant, in mass plantings, or integrated into mixed borders and container arrangements. Its rich color makes it a fantastic backdrop for brighter flowering plants.
Care & maintenance
Fountain Grass 'First Knight' is relatively low-maintenance. Cut back foliage to about 6-12 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid cutting back in fall, as the dried foliage provides winter interest. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Quick facts
- Type
- grass
- Mature height
- 3-4 ft
- Mature width
- 2-3 ft
- Sun
- Full Sun
- Water
- Average
- Growth rate
- Moderate to Fast