The charming grass Pennisetum 'Hameln', also known as the Chinese fountain grass, is one of the most popular of any of the late-flowering ornamental garden grasses. It's a clump-forming perennial, producing beautiful, long-lasting bottlebrush flower-spikes, in shades from buff to soft pinks and light maroon. These flowers protrude above the bright green foliage. In autumn, this foliage turns to a beautiful bright golden-yellow, and fades slowly until the depths of winter, by which time it will have died back. However, just a few weeks later, you will start to see the new growths emerging once again.

Pennisetum 'Hameln' is at its most impressive when mass-planted. However, it is also fabulous as a single specimen, or when growing as a patio container plant. Because this grass is looking its best in late summer and autumn, it is a good idea to grow it alongside early-flowering perennials or spring bulbs. Don't forget, too, its flowers are excellent for cutting—either for fresh or dried arrangements indoors. Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' is so highly regarded that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has awarded it the coveted Award of Garden Merit.