- **Type**: Ornamental grass (perennial in warm climates, annual in cooler zones)

- **Height**: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters)

- **Width**: 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm)

- **Growth Habit**: Clumping, upright with arching, fountain-like fronds

- **Foliage**:

- Narrow, blade-like leaves, 12 to 18 inches long (30 to 45 cm)

- Deep burgundy to reddish-purple, intensifies in full sun

- Evergreen in frost-free zones; dies back in cold winters

- **Flowers**:

- Feathery, bottlebrush-like plumes, 6 to 12 inches long (15 to 30 cm)

- Reddish-purple to coppery, softening to tan as they age

- Bloom season: Mid-summer to fall (July to October)

- Not fragrant, but adds texture; attracts birds when seeding

- **Light**: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best color and growth; tolerates light shade

- **Soil**:

- Well-drained; adapts to sandy, loamy, or average soils

- Neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0 to 7.5)

- **Watering**: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established, water regularly during first year

- **Hardiness**: USDA Zones 9 to 11 (20°F or -6°C; grown as an annual elsewhere or overwintered indoors)

- **Wildlife**: Attracts birds (seeds); deer-resistant due to texture

- **Care**:

- Cut back to 4-6 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth

- Fertilize lightly with a balanced mix (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring

- Divide clumps every 3-5 years to rejuvenate (in perennial zones)

- **Pests/Diseases**:

- Generally pest- and disease-free

- Susceptible to root rot in soggy conditions

- **Uses**: Containers, borders, mass plantings, accents, or as a focal point

- **Growth Rate**: Fast; reaches mature size in one season

- **Special Features**:

- Striking red foliage and plumes add dramatic flair

- Non-invasive sterile hybrid (unlike green *Pennisetum setaceum*)

- Heat and drought tolerant, low-maintenance

Red Fountain Grass’s rich burgundy foliage and graceful plumes bring bold color and movement to sunny landscapes or containers, thriving with minimal care. Let me know if you’d like more growing tips or pairing suggestions!