There are numerous cultivars of fountain grass or Pennisetum. If the plants are green
foliaged, more than likely they are hardy plants--Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'
is a dwarf perennial fountain grass and one of our Arkansas Select plants.
If they are purple foliaged, they should be considered annuals, which will
not survive our winter. Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' or Purple fountain
grass is a common landscape addition. If you do have the annuals, you can
dig them up and overwinter them in the garage, or take divisions. Whether
annual or perennial, ornamental grasses stay attractive all winter in the
landscape. The plumes and dried foliage gives winter interest. Perennial
grasses should be cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring to
help you start the season off clean.
(August) We live in Conway and had some landscaping done in early April. The landscaper
suggested "fountain grass". We now have 5 thriving plants along the front of the
house next to the brick. At this point they are beautiful. We have heard that
they will probably not survive the winter. Is this true? If it is not true, what
can we do to prepare them for winter. Thank you!