National Arboretum fountain grass
Cenchrus alopecuroides 'National Arboretum'
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate or wet soil
Size2 to 2.5 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Blackish brown
- Fall color
- Yes
Garden uses
Notes
'National Arboretum' fountain grass (Cenchrus alopecuroides 'National Arboretum') is a grass for rain gardens and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet soil. Blackish brown blooms appear in late summer and last into early to mid autumn. The foliage also turns color in fall, and the plant stays drought tolerant once settled.
Pairs well with Swamp milkweed, Prairie dropseed, and Golden club.