Pennisetum alopecuroides, Swamp Foxtail Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides
 Swamp Foxtail Grass

Foxtail grass is found in most States of Australia as well as in Asia and the Pacific Islands. It naturally occurs along streams and in damp places but is fairly adaptable to general garden conditions where it may receive less water. It grows in a clump to about a metre and the bushy bristly purple tinged flower heads can appear anytime from December to April .I have seen it used as a decorative hedge plant growing along a fence line facing the street and fortunately the garden owner knew to prune it back hard during winter to allow new growth to emerge in Spring. It is very decorative mass planted under Eucalyptus as above and will tolerate light shade as well as full sun. Most grasses are fairly easy to divide if you want more plants. Fertilizer requirements are minimal.