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Red bunny tails

Pennisetum messiacum 'Red Buttons'

pen-nih-SEE-tum mess-EYE-ah-kum

This annual produces deep reddish-black flowers that resemble rabbits’ tails. Flowers persist throughout the season. This plant forms an evergreen clump of green foliage with burgundy highlights, 2 feet high and 3 feet wide.

CareGrow in light, average, well-drained soil in full sun. Cut back previous year's foliage by early spring where hardy.

PropagationDivide in late spring or early autumn. Sow seed in early spring at 55° to 65°F.

ProblemsRust, eye spot, leaf spots.

  • Genus : Pennisetum
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Width : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 7, 8, 9
  • Tolerance : Deer Tolerant
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Plant Type : Grasses
  • Uses : Ground Covers
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Flower Color : Red
  • Characteristics : Self Seeds, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
  • Bloom Time : Summer
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest

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