About Cenchrus alopecuroides (L.) Thunb.
This species is a warm-season ornamental grass that typically forms graceful, spreading clumps that reach 2–3 feet (0.61–0.91 m) in both height and width. In summer, it produces narrow, medium to deep green leaves that grow up to 1/2 inch wide. These leaves turn golden yellow in fall, then fade to beige by late fall. The foliage usually stays attractive throughout the entire winter. In late summer, showy, silvery to pinkish-white, bristly, bottle brush-like flower spikes arch outward from the clump, shaped like water spraying from a fountain. This growth form gives the species its common name of fountain grass. As seeds develop, the flower spikes turn brownish, and usually remain on the plant until late fall or early winter before shattering. Many horticultural cultivars are available, with heights ranging from 1–5 feet (0.30–1.52 m) and variation in flower color, including shades of purple, pink, and white, and in autumn foliage appearance.
