Also known as African Fountain Grass · Crimson Fountain Grass · Crimson Fountaingrass
Cenchrus setaceus, a perennial grass, forms dense tussocks with feathery, purple-red inflorescences. It is drought-tolerant and widely naturalized.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. Tolerates some partial shade but flowering may be reduced.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures during the growing season. Can tolerate moderate frost but is best protected from prolonged freezing.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Cenchrus setaceus regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly in cooler months, especially if grown in containers, to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Prune Cenchrus setaceus in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or overgrown foliage to maintain shape and promote vigorous new growth.
Cut back flowering stalks if seed production is undesirable.
Propagate Cenchrus setaceus by division of established clumps in spring or by seed sown in spring. Seeds may require stratification or scarification for improved germination.
Divisions should be planted at the same depth as they were previously growing.
Repot container-grown Cenchrus setaceus every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Repot in spring before the active growing season commences.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cenchrus Setaceus (Cenchrus setaceus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Cenchrus |
| Species | Cenchrus setaceus |
Similar in genus Cenchrus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
