What To Plant With Purple Fountain Grass In A Container
Purple fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’) is a stunning ornamental grass that adds a touch of drama and interest to any garden or container. Its rich burgundy foliage and graceful arching plumes provide a striking contrast to other plants, making it the perfect centerpiece for container gardens. However, choosing the right companions for purple fountain grass can be a bit tricky. In this article, we will explore some delightful options that will complement and enhance the beauty of this captivating grass in a container.
One fantastic choice to consider is the vibrant Lantana (Lantana camara). This flowering plant thrives in the same growing conditions as purple fountain grass, making it an excellent companion. Lantana boasts clusters of colorful flowers in shades of orange, pink, yellow, and purple, which perfectly harmonize with the rich burgundy leaves of the grass. This combination creates a visually appealing container garden that bursts with a riot of colors.
Another great option to pair with purple fountain grass is the elegant Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria). This perennial plant features silver-gray foliage with a soft, velvety texture, adding a touch of sophistication to the container. The dusty miller’s silvery leaves beautifully offset the deep hues of the grass, creating a captivating contrast. Additionally, this pairing offers an interesting textural element that adds depth and intrigue to the overall composition.
For those who prefer a more subtle and sophisticated look, the delicate pink flowers of Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa x hybrida) make an excellent choice. This trailing plant, commonly known as Million Bells, offers abundant blooms that spill over the edges of the container. When combined with purple fountain grass, the pink flowers create a soft and delicate color palette. This pairing is not only visually pleasing but also adds a sense of romance to the container garden.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to create a bold and dramatic container garden, consider combining purple fountain grass with Red Dracena (Cordyline fruticosa). The deep red foliage of the Red Dracena intensifies the visual impact of the grass, creating a striking contrast. This combination adds a touch of tropical allure to any setting and lends an air of exotic sophistication to the container garden.
In conclusion, while purple fountain grass is undoubtedly a stunning standalone plant, pairing it with the right companions can elevate its beauty even further. From vibrant Lantana to elegant Dusty Miller, delicate Calibrachoa, or bold Red Dracena, there are numerous options to choose from when deciding what to plant with purple fountain grass in a container. By selecting plants that complement and enhance the unique characteristics of this ornamental grass, you can create a visually captivating container garden that will be the envy of all.
key Takeaways
- Purple fountain grass is a stunning ornamental grass that can be grown in containers to add texture and color to your garden.
- To create an attractive container planting with purple fountain grass, combine it with plants that have contrasting colors and shapes.
- Annual flowers like petunias and verbena can provide a burst of vibrant color and fill in the spaces around the grass.
- Perennials like sedums and heucheras can add interesting foliage colors and textures to complement the purple fountain grass.
- Consider adding trailing plants like ivy or sweet potato vine to add a cascading effect and soften the edges of the container.
- When choosing a container for your purple fountain grass, make sure it is large enough to accommodate the grass’s mature size and has good drainage.
- Provide adequate sunlight and water for proper growth and health of the purple fountain grass and its companion plants.
- Regular pruning and maintenance will help to keep the container planting neat and attractive throughout the growing season.
- Remember to protect the purple fountain grass from frost or bring it indoors during winter in colder climates.
What to Plant with Purple Fountain Grass in a Container
Importance of Companion Plants with Purple Fountain Grass
Companion plants are essential elements in container gardening, especially when it comes to pairing them with purple fountain grass. Companion plants not only enhance the beauty of the overall container arrangement but also provide functional benefits. They can serve as a contrasting or complementary backdrop, adding texture, color, and foliage diversity. Additionally, some companion plants can help improve soil quality, deter pests, attract pollinators, or even suppress weeds. Therefore, selecting the right plants to grow together with purple fountain grass is crucial for a successful container garden.
Matching Plants with Purple Fountain Grass
When selecting companion plants for purple fountain grass, it is important to consider the growth habits, height, and visual appeal of both the grass and the potential plants. Here are some options to consider:
1. Ornamental Millet (Pennisetum glaucum): This plant complements purple fountain grass with its upright growth habit and similar texture. The contrast between the maroon-colored fountain grass and the deep purple foliage of ornamental millet creates a stunning visual display.
2. New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax): This plant offers both color contrast and structural interest. Its spiky, upright foliage in shades of green, purple, or bronze provides an excellent backdrop for the graceful arching form of purple fountain grass.
3. Lantana (Lantana camara): With its vibrant clusters of flowers in various colors such as yellow, orange, red, or pink, lantana can add a pop of color to the container composition. Its drought tolerance also makes it a suitable companion for the water-wise purple fountain grass.
4. Verbena (Verbena spp.): This flowering plant comes in a range of colors and forms, making it a versatile companion for purple fountain grass. Whether cascading over the edge of the container or planted as a mound, verbena can create a visually pleasing arrangement when combined with the grass.
5. Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria): This silver-leaved plant offers a contrasting foliage option for pairing with purple fountain grass. The soft, fuzzy leaves of dusty miller can add texture and visual interest to the container planting.
Considerations for Container Gardening
Container gardening has its own set of considerations, especially when it involves purple fountain grass. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
1. Container Size and Drainage: Ensure that the container you choose is large enough to accommodate the growth of purple fountain grass and the companion plants. Additionally, adequate drainage holes in the container are essential to prevent waterlogging.
2. Light and Temperature Requirements: Purple fountain grass thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is important to consider the light requirements of both the grass and the companion plants to ensure they are compatible.
3. Watering and Fertilizing: Container plants require regular watering to maintain moisture levels. It is important to water the container thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out. Additionally, fertilize the plants according to their specific needs, considering the feeding requirements of both the grass and the companion plants.
By carefully selecting companion plants, considering container gardening requirements, and ensuring proper care, you can create a visually appealing and thriving container garden with purple fountain grass as the focal point.
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FAQs
What are some good companion plants for purple fountain grass in a container?
There are several plants that pair well with purple fountain grass in a container. Some popular choices include flowering annuals like petunias, marigolds, and geraniums. These colorful blooms contrast nicely with the deep purple foliage of the grass. Other options include vinca vine for a cascading effect, blue fescue grass for a complementary texture, and salvia for a bold burst of color.
Can you mix different varieties of fountain grass in a container?
Yes, mixing different varieties of fountain grass can create a visually stunning container garden. You can choose to mix varieties with different foliage colors, such as purple, red, or green, to bring more interest to your container. Alternatively, you can mix varieties with different growth habits, such as a tall variety paired with a more petite one, to add dimension and variety to your arrangement.
How often should I water purple fountain grass in a container?
Purple fountain grass in a container should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Depending on weather conditions and the size of your container, this may mean watering every 1-2 days during hot, dry periods. You can check the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Does purple fountain grass need full sun or partial shade?
Purple fountain grass thrives in full sun, meaning it requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it can tolerate some afternoon shade, particularly in areas with intense heat. If you live in a region with scorching summers, providing some afternoon shade for your purple fountain grass in a container can help prevent wilting and stress. Aim to place your container in a location that receives morning sun and some shade in the afternoon for optimal growing conditions.
How do I maintain the shape and height of purple fountain grass in a container?
To maintain the shape and height of purple fountain grass in a container, regular pruning and maintenance are necessary. You can use clean garden shears or scissors to trim the grass back in early spring before new growth appears. Cut the grass down to about 6 inches, removing any dead or damaged blades. Additionally, you can pinch off any new growth to encourage a fuller, bushier appearance. Throughout the growing season, remove any yellow or brown blades to keep the plant looking tidy and prevent disease.
Options for Container Gardening
Choosing the Right Plants for a Succulent Container Garden
When creating a succulent container garden, it’s important to choose plants that have similar light and water requirements. Some popular options include echeverias, sedums, haworthias, and aeoniums. These plants come in various colors, sizes, and textures, allowing you to create an interesting arrangement. Consider incorporating trailing succulents like string of pearls or burro’s tail for a cascading effect, or use upright varieties like agave or aloe as focal points.
Creative Container Ideas for Herb Gardens
Herb gardens in containers can be both practical and visually appealing. Consider using hanging baskets for trailing herbs like thyme or oregano, or opt for a window box with multiple compartments for different herbs. Vertical containers, such as a wall-mounted planter or a repurposed pallet, are excellent for maximizing space. Additionally, you can get creative with the containers themselves – use old teapots or tin cans, or even repurpose wooden crates or wine barrels for a rustic look.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, planting companions for purple fountain grass in a container can add depth and visual interest to your garden. Consider selecting plants with contrasting colors, textures, and growth habits to create a stunning arrangement. Water the grass regularly but avoid overwatering, and provide ample sunlight while also protecting it from intense afternoon heat. By maintaining the shape and height of the grass through regular pruning, you can ensure a healthy and beautiful container garden.
In addition, container gardening offers a world of possibilities beyond purple fountain grass. Whether you’re interested in creating a succulent container garden or growing an herb garden in limited space, there are countless options available. From choosing the right plants with similar needs to exploring creative container ideas, you can create beautiful and functional gardens that bring joy and flavor to your home. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with different combinations – the possibilities are endless!