A clumping grass with arching green foliage and showy purplish foxtail plumes in summer and autumn. Self-seeds readily and is regarded as an environmental weed in parts of Australia.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 80 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Swamp Foxtail
Botanically, Pennisetum alopecuroides is a fast-growing ornamental grass in the Poaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 80 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Purple flowers appear in summer and autumn.
Where to grow Swamp Foxtail
Swamp Foxtail suits tropical, subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Swamp Foxtail does best in clay and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Swamp Foxtail does best with regular, moderate watering. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Swamp Foxtail after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Swamp Foxtail in the garden
Swamp Foxtail earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Swamp Foxtail with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Swamp Foxtail
Plant Sale lists Swamp Foxtail as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
