Karley Rose Fountain Grass (Pennisetum orientale 'Karley Rose') is a showy ornamental grass prized for its soft, smoky rose-purple flower plumes and graceful, arching foliage. Growing approximately 2-3 feet tall and wide, with flowers rising above the foliage, it forms a dense mound of narrow green leaves that provides excellent movement and texture throughout the growing season.
Beginning in early to midsummer, fluffy rose-purple flower plumes rise above the foliage and continue providing color for an extended period. As the flowers mature, they gradually fade to soft tan while maintaining their airy appearance. Karley Rose is an excellent choice for foundation plantings, mixed borders, mass plantings, edging, cottage gardens, or as a colorful accent.
More About Karley Rose Fountain Grass
- Low Maintenance
- Moderate Growing
- Perennial Ornamental Grass
- Long Blooming
- Drought Tolerant Once Established
- Foundation Planting, Mixed Border, Mass Planting, Edging, Accent, Cottage Garden
- Dense, Arching Habit
- Showy Rose-Purple Flower Plumes
- Provides Winter Texture and Structure
- Deer Resistant
Height: 2-3 Feet, Taller When in Bloom
Spread: 2-3 Feet
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
Characteristics
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Sun (best flowering in full sun)
- Season of Interest: Summer, Fall, Winter Texture
- Soil Moisture: Average, Well Draining
- Attributes: Clumping, Mounding, Arching
- Foliage Color: Green
- Flower Color: Rose-Purple, Maturing to Tan
Care & Maintenance Tips
Planting:
Plant in full sun for the strongest growth and heaviest flowering. Karley Rose can tolerate some light shade, but excessive shade may result in fewer flowers and a looser habit. It prefers well-drained soil and performs especially well in sunny borders and mass plantings.
Watering:
Water consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Karley Rose is moderately drought tolerant and generally requires supplemental watering only during extended periods of hot, dry weather.
Fertilizing:
Karley Rose generally requires very little fertilizer. If needed, apply a light application of balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can encourage weak or floppy growth.
Pruning:
Leave the foliage and dried flower plumes standing through winter for added texture and structure. Cut the entire plant back to approximately 4-6 inches above the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
