How big does Hameln dwarf fountain grass grow?

About 90 cm × 90 cm after ten years (height × width). Its ultimate size is 60–90 cm × 60–90 cm.

What soil does Hameln dwarf fountain grass grow in?

It tolerates these soils: average garden soil, sandy, calcareous, acidic.

Is Hameln dwarf fountain grass hardy?

Hardy down to -23 °C (USDA zone 6, RHS H7). It gets through winter everywhere at lower altitudes, but may not survive unprotected in a mountain garden.

When does Hameln dwarf fountain grass flower?

Flowering: August–October, white, silver, pink.

How much water does Hameln dwarf fountain grass need?

Water need: medium. Drought tolerance: medium.

How much does Hameln dwarf fountain grass cost?

It sells for roughly €4.10 to €40 in local shops, depending on size.

Hameln dwarf fountain grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln'

Hameln dwarf fountain grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln') is an ornamental grass that reaches 90 cm × 90 cm after ten years. Hardy down to -23 °C. Drought tolerance: medium. Sold in local shops from about €4.10.

Illustration of Hameln dwarf fountain grass — An illustration of the typical shape of the mature plant, not a photo.

What it's good for, and what it isn't

This compact ornamental grass works well in small groups, mixed perennial borders or a large container. Soft bottlebrush flower heads appear in late summer, and the dry foliage adds winter texture. Give it a sunny, well-drained position and cut back the old stems in spring.

Watch out for

Winter waterlogging and prolonged summer drought can cause damage; supplementary watering may be needed during extended hot weather. Published hardiness ratings differ substantially, so winter protection is particularly important in cold, exposed positions and containers. Older clumps can develop a bare centre and may need division to rejuvenate them. The species can self-seed: its first escape in Hungary was described in 2020 along a road in Budapest. It is not on the official invasive lists (the EU list names its relative Pennisetum setaceum); if you do not want seedlings, cut off the plumes before the seed ripens.

Key facts

Light: Full sun, Part shade
Water need: Medium
Care: Low
Size after 10 years: 90 cm × 90 cm
Hardiness: down to -23 °C
Foliage: Deciduous
Flowering: J F M A M J J A S O N D August–October, white, silver, pink

Group	Ornamental grass
Light	Full sun, Part shade
Size after 10 years	90 cm × 90 cm
Ultimate size	60–90 cm × 60–90 cm
Hardiness	down to -23 °C (USDA 6, RHS H7)
Soil	Average garden soil, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic
Foliage	Deciduous
Flowering	August–October, white, silver, pink
Water need	Medium
Drought tolerance	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Root aggressiveness	Low
Suckering	no
Spreading	Low
Distance from buildings	no data
Distance from paving	no data
Litter	not typical
Planting distance	70 cm
For dogs	no data
For cats	no data
For children	no data
Typical price	from about €4.10

Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor.

Sizes and prices available

The same plant is sold as a small pot and as a specimen several metres tall, and the price follows. Prices are rounded and for guidance only.

Size	Typical price
25-30 cm	approx. €12
30-40 cm	approx. €8.70
size not stated	approx. €4.10 – €40

Frequently asked questions

Data updated: October 13, 2026 · How our data is made

Appears in these lists

Ground cover plants Plants for containers Ornamental grasses Plants with autumn colour Ornamental grasses with autumn colour