Description
Product Description
Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Cassian’ (Cassian Fountain Grass) forms a dense, arching fountain of fine-textured foliage topped in late summer–fall with abundant tan to rosy-tan bottlebrush plumes that persist into winter. Compact and uniform, ‘Cassian’ delivers golden-bronze fall color with warm orange-red tints, excellent drought tolerance once established, and reliable performance in full sun and well-drained soils—perfect for borders, massing, and modern naturalistic designs.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Cassian’ |
| Common Name | Cassian Fountain Grass; Dwarf Fountain Grass |
| Plant Type | Warm-season perennial bunchgrass |
| Native/Non-native | Non-native species (Asia); cultivar selection |
| Hardiness Zone | 5–9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun (tolerates light part sun) |
| Moisture | Dry to medium; well-drained soils |
| Mature Height | 24–36″ foliage; 36–42″ in bloom |
| Mature Spread | 24–36″ clump |
| Growth Habit | Dense, arching fountain; clumping (non-running) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Fragrance | None |
| Bloom Time | Late summer to fall |
| Plume/Flower Color | Tan to rosy-tan bottlebrush plumes |
| Seasonal Interest | Summer plumes; golden-bronze fall color; winter texture |
| Foliage & Features | Fine, glossy green blades; tidy, uniform mound |
| Landscape Features | Drought tolerance; erosion control; wildlife cover/seed |
| Landscape Uses | Borders, massing, accents, slopes, streetscapes, containers |
| Soil | Average to lean, well-drained loam/sand; tolerates light clay if drained |
| Water Needs | Low to medium after establishment |
| Maintenance | Low; cut back late winter/early spring |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Generally deer resistant; few serious pests |
| Container Friendly | Excellent in large containers with drainage |
| Recommended Spacing | 24–30″ for cohesive drifts and airflow |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Plant in full sun for the strongest clumps, most plumes, and best fall color.
- Soil & Water: Prefers well-drained soils from sandy/loam to light clay. Water to establish; then drought tolerant with occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells. Avoid soggy/winter-wet sites.
- Planting: Set crowns at grade; space 24–30″ on center. Mulch lightly, keeping mulch off the crown.
- Maintenance: Low-care. Leave plumes for winter interest; cut back to 4–6″ in late winter/early spring before new growth. Fertilize sparingly—excess fertility softens the habit.
- Design Tips: Repeat in drifts to create rhythm and movement. Pairs beautifully with coneflowers, rudbeckias, asters, and salvias. Effective on slopes and in containers.
Key Features
- Compact, uniform fountain with abundant bottlebrush plumes
- Golden-bronze fall color with warm tints
- Drought tolerant once established; low maintenance
- Non-running clumping habit—easy to site and manage
- Four-season interest: summer bloom, fall color, winter texture
Problems
- Few serious issues. In shade or rich, overwatered soils, plants may relax/flop—provide sun, drainage, and modest fertility. Avoid waterlogged sites to prevent crown/root decline.
Uses in the Landscape
- Mass plantings and border ribbons for texture and movement
- Foundation/streetscape accents with low input needs
- Slopes for erosion control and year-round structure
- Large containers for architectural, three-season interest
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, DP-50 Plug
- Recommended Spacing: 24–30″ for cohesive, upright drifts.
Why You’ll Love It
- A compact, reliable fountain grass with plentiful plumes and rich fall color
- Water-wise, easy, and tidy—great for high-visibility sites
- One annual cutback keeps it looking sharp all year
Quick Highlights
A compact fountain grass with abundant tan plumes and golden-bronze fall color—‘Cassian’ brings movement, structure, and low-maintenance polish to sunny, well-drained landscapes.
