Pennisetum thunbergii

The Pennisetum thunbergii is a rare African grass in cultivation despite its adorable red to purple spikes, which are very decorative in summer. Although not completely hardy, this grass readily self-seeds and tolerates dry soils in summer. This 'grass' has a dense, upright habit and modest size, adorned with small, feathery, silver cylinders with long, dark red bristles that turn caramel brown and beige, standing well above a very fresh green foliage. Colourful, charming, and highly decorative, it can be used in borders and an annual in container gardens.

The Pennisetum thunbergii is a non-invasive, rhizomatous grass native to African savannas, from southern North Africa to northern tropical East Africa and Somalia. It belongs to the large family of Poaceae. This grass with red spikes forms a beautiful tuft of leaves and spikes, reaching a height of 80 cm (32in) when in flower and a width of approximately 60 cm (24in). The foliage remains evergreen in mild climates but dries out everywhere else in winter. The base consists of flat, thin, long, slightly stiff leaves in a beautiful light and vibrant green. The flowering culms emerge from the vegetation in summer, in July-August, depending on the climate, bearing hardy flower heads composed of silky spikelets gathered in small, thick, upright plumes, 5 cm (2in) long. Their colour evolves from brown-pink-silver to dark brown-purple in August and then to beige. The plant remains decorative for part of the winter and looks stunning when covered in frost. Under protective mulch, its base will withstand short frosts of around -10/-12 °C (14/10.4°F) in well-drained soil.

This unusual grass also expresses its delicacy by blending amongst slightly stiff perennials, such as dahlias, tritomas or perovskias. It brings an extra touch of grace to any landscape, including patio decor. It can also be planted en masse to border a pathway. The small red 'rabbit tails' are enhanced by the blue flowering of catmints or perennial salvias and harmonise perfectly with purple amaranths, like 'Velvet Curtains'.

Pennisetums are a great addition to borders as they bring movement and life to the area. They can be strategically placed between rocks in a large rockery or above a wall. These grasses take on an astonishing dimension in low light and transparently highlight all perspectives, even in the smallest of gardens. If you have a flowery meadow or a pathway, don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the sense of touch that these grasses provide. Their spikes are as silky to the touch as they appear. Additionally, Pennisetum has the advantage of stabilising soils through its very dense root system.