Swamp Foxtail or Fountain Grass


		Swamp Foxtail or Fountain Grass Pennisetum alopecuroides Grasses Queensland Wet Tropics Region

	A perennial grass with narrow mid to dark green leaves forming a dense clump 60 to 90cm in height. Attractive flower spikes appear above the foliage in the warmer months, showing yellow, green and the distinctive purple colours. This plants 'Australian native' origin is questioned by many and the natural range of the plant has been confused by extensive use in urban landscape plantings in recent years.

HOW IT SPREADS The seeds are not plentiful and viability is low however as there is conjecture regarding the distribution of this plant in Asia and Australia it is recommended we promote sterile hybrids or other well established native grasses.





Other superior selections include; Themeda triandra - Kangaroo Grass Cymbopogon ambiguus - Native Lemon Grass Ask your local retailer for more superior selections

Alternative Plants


Photo: Macbird Floraprint		Flax Lilies Dianella species Trees and Shrubs

	Excellent Australian native selection with mid-dark green arching foliage and sprays of blue flowers followed by bright blue berries. There has been a proliferation of Dianella cultivars with a wide range of foliage colours and growth habits in recent years. Ask your retailer for the most reliable local selections.

Photo: Barry Naylor		Mat Rushes Lomandra species Grasses

	This widely used accent plant has thick arching green foliage that emerges from a central crown. Suitable near waters edge or boggy areas but able to tolerate dry conditions as well, this is a most versatile alternative. Many new cultivars are now available with a range of foliage colours and growth habits.

Photo: Colourwise Nursery		Purple Fountain Grass Pennisetum advena 'Rubrum' Grasses

	This sterile hybrid is a showy and popular perennial ornamental grass. It grows rapidly forming dense clumps of burgundy coloured foliage up to 1.5m in height. Arching purple pink flower spikes appear above the foliage in summer.